Instructions
1. Prep the Chicken
Pat chicken dry and season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Sear the Chicken
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Don’t worry about cooking through yet — we’ll finish it in the oven.
3. Make the Cheese Topping
In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper into a thick spreadable mixture.
4. Add the Topping & Bake
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Once chicken is seared, top each piece with a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden, and chicken is cooked through (internal temp: 165°F).
No oven-safe skillet? Transfer to a baking dish before adding cheese and baking.
5. Cook the Creamy Orzo
While the chicken bakes, melt butter in a separate saucepan. Add orzo and toast for 2 minutes. Pour in broth, bring to a boil, then simmer for 8–10 minutes until orzo is tender. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, and season to taste.
To Serve
Spoon creamy orzo onto plates, top with that gorgeous garlic-herb chicken, and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Add extra cheese on top if you’re feeling fancy!
Tips & Variations
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Add spinach to the orzo for extra greens
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Want a kick? Stir in red pepper flakes
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Substitute boneless thighs for extra richness
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Use Boursin cheese or herb cream cheese to simplify topping
❤️ Final Bite
This dish is the perfect mix of indulgent and comforting — crispy chicken, creamy cheese, and buttery orzo all in one forkful. Save this recipe and impress your guests or spoil yourself on a weeknight!
