Welcome to a flavorful and comforting meal that’s bound to become a family favorite! Our Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet is a delicious one-pan dish that balances savory chicken, earthy mushrooms, tender orzo, and creamy ricotta. This dish can also be made dairy-free with a few simple swaps! Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is quick to make and packed with wholesome ingredients. Let’s dive into the recipe, and don’t forget to check out related dishes like Cowboy Casserole or a savory Sausage Balls Recipe.
Introduction: Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet is a delightful fusion of Italian-inspired flavors, made easily in just one pan. The combination of tender chicken, rich ricotta, and fresh vegetables creates a hearty, nutritious dish that’s comforting and satisfying. It’s perfect for fans of creamy pasta dishes or those looking for an alternative to heavy cream-based recipes. The best part? You can modify this dish to be completely dairy-free by using alternative ricotta and mozzarella cheeses!
Ingredients for Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 large shallot, halved and thinly sliced
- 8 ounces baby bella mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 4 cups baby spinach, packed
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- ½ cup dry white wine
- 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
- Zest of ½ lemon
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- ¾ cup whole milk ricotta cheese (sub dairy-free ricotta for dairy-free)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella (omit for dairy-free or use dairy-free cheese)
- ¼ cup thinly sliced basil leaves (for serving)
Dairy-Free Substitutions: Use Kite Hill dairy-free ricotta and mozzarella for a dairy-free version of this dish.
How to Make Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet – Step by Step
Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the cubed chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Spread the chicken in an even layer in the pan, cooking until it’s browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the garlic, shallots, and mushrooms. Cook for 4 minutes, or until the mushrooms are soft and the shallots are tender.
Step 3: Add Spinach and Orzo
Reduce the heat to medium and add the baby spinach. Stir until wilted, about 2 minutes. Add the orzo, tossing to combine with the vegetables.
Step 4: Deglaze with Wine and Simmer
Pour in the white wine and let it cook for 2 minutes, reducing by half. Add the chicken broth, lemon zest, lemon juice, and ricotta cheese, stirring everything together until well combined.
Step 5: Combine with Chicken and Bake
Return the browned chicken to the skillet, stirring to incorporate. Spread the mixture evenly in the skillet and sprinkle the mozzarella on top. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 6: Let Rest and Serve
Remove from the oven and allow the dish to rest for 3-5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.
Helpful Tips for the Best Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and mushrooms enhance the overall flavor and texture.
- Deglazing: When adding white wine, scrape the bottom of the skillet to incorporate the delicious browned bits into the sauce.
- Resting Time: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps the sauce thicken and flavors meld together beautifully.
Cooking Tips for the Best Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet
- Best Skillet Choice: Use a large, oven-safe skillet like a cast iron or stainless steel skillet to ensure even cooking.
- Broiling Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil the dish for 2 minutes at the end of the bake time.
- Dairy-Free Hacks: Don’t shy away from dairy-free options like cashew-based ricotta or almond milk mozzarella – they work wonders in this dish.
Serving Suggestions for Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet
Pair this rich and creamy skillet dish with a crisp salad like a Greek Lentil Salad or a side of Garlic Bread to round out the meal. You could also serve it with a refreshing white wine like Pinot Grigio or a citrusy lemonade for a lighter touch.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet provides approximately:
- Calories: 510
- Protein: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fats: 22g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Vitamin A: 80% of daily value
- Calcium: 25% of daily value
Storage and Leftovers for Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet
To store, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or in the microwave until warmed through. If the dish has thickened too much, add a splash of broth or water before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet
- Can I use whole wheat orzo? Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo adds extra fiber and works great in this dish.
- What can I substitute for white wine? You can substitute chicken broth or even a splash of apple cider vinegar for a bit of acidity.
- Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, this dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Just ensure it’s fully cooled before freezing.
- How can I make this dish gluten-free? Swap the orzo with a gluten-free pasta or rice for a gluten-free version.
Related Recipes for Ricotta Lovers
If you loved this Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet, you’ll enjoy these ricotta-based dishes:
Conclusion
We hope you love this Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet as much as we do! It’s a versatile dish that’s easily adaptable to dietary needs and is sure to be a hit with your family. Try it out, and don’t forget to share your variations or thoughts in the comments below! Enjoy!
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Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet – Easy Recipe
Description
Welcome to a flavorful and comforting meal that’s bound to become a family favorite! Our Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet is a delicious one-pan dish that balances savory chicken, earthy mushrooms, tender orzo, and creamy ricotta. This dish can also be made dairy-free with a few simple swaps! Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is quick to make and packed with wholesome ingredients. Let’s dive into the recipe, and don’t forget to check out related dishes like Cowboy Casserole or a savory Sausage Balls Recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 large shallot, halved and thinly sliced
- 8 ounces baby bella mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 4 cups baby spinach, packed
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- ½ cup dry white wine
- 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
- Zest of ½ lemon
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- ¾ cup whole milk ricotta cheese (sub dairy-free ricotta for dairy-free)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella (omit for dairy-free or use dairy-free cheese)
- ¼ cup thinly sliced basil leaves (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the cubed chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Spread the chicken in an even layer in the pan, cooking until it’s browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the garlic, shallots, and mushrooms. Cook for 4 minutes, or until the mushrooms are soft and the shallots are tender.
Step 3: Add Spinach and Orzo
Reduce the heat to medium and add the baby spinach. Stir until wilted, about 2 minutes. Add the orzo, tossing to combine with the vegetables.
Step 4: Deglaze with Wine and Simmer
Pour in the white wine and let it cook for 2 minutes, reducing by half. Add the chicken broth, lemon zest, lemon juice, and ricotta cheese, stirring everything together until well combined.
Step 5: Combine with Chicken and Bake
Return the browned chicken to the skillet, stirring to incorporate. Spread the mixture evenly in the skillet and sprinkle the mozzarella on top. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 6: Let Rest and Serve
Remove from the oven and allow the dish to rest for 3-5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and mushrooms enhance the overall flavor and texture.
- Deglazing: When adding white wine, scrape the bottom of the skillet to incorporate the delicious browned bits into the sauce.
- Resting Time: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps the sauce thicken and flavors meld together beautifully.
