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Creamy Chicken Mushroom Orzo Bake

This Creamy Chicken Mushroom Orzo Bake is SO EASY! Tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and cheesy orzo combine for a comforting, hearty casserole perfect for weeknights.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 pound chicken breast diced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup mushrooms sliced
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  • Dice the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Chop the onion finely, slice the mushrooms, and mince the garlic cloves. Grate mozzarella and Parmesan cheese if not pre-shredded.
  • Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Cook 5-7 minutes until mostly cooked and golden. Remove chicken and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, sauté chopped onion until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until moisture releases and browns, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Return chicken to skillet. Add orzo pasta, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most liquid absorbed.
  • Stir in half of the shredded mozzarella and all Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella evenly over the top. Transfer to casserole dish if skillet isn’t oven-safe.
  • Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, until cheese is melted and lightly golden.
  • Remove from oven and let rest a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy.

Equipment

  • Large oven-safe skillet or casserole dish
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula
  • Grater

Notes

  • For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese.
  • Replace orzo with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb alternative.
  • Try adding red pepper flakes during sauté for a spicy kick.
  • Assemble the bake a day ahead and refrigerate for convenient meal prep.
  • Freeze leftovers before or after baking; thaw before reheating if baked.