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Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet – Easy Recipe

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

Scale

  • 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

Notes

  • 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.

Find it online: https://optimalrecipes.com/creamy-ricotta-chicken-and-orzo-skillet-easy-recipe-2/