Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear for 5 to 6 minutes, flipping once or twice, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium and add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add sliced mushrooms and diced onion. Cook for 5 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are browned and onions are soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add dry orzo pasta to the skillet. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes to lightly toast the pasta until slightly golden and aromatic.
- Pour in Marsala wine, using a wooden spoon to scrape up browned bits from the bottom. Let simmer for about 2 minutes until reduced by roughly half.
- Add 3.5 cups of chicken broth and stir to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring every 2 to 3 minutes, until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed. Add remaining broth if needed.
- Stir in heavy cream or Greek yogurt and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until cheese melts and sauce becomes smooth and velvety.
- Add baby spinach and seared chicken with any accumulated juices. Stir for 1 to 2 minutes until spinach wilts and chicken is heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Notes
Storage: Refrigerate in airtight container for up to 3 days. Orzo absorbs sauce as it sits. Reheat on stovetop with added broth to restore creaminess. Substitutions: Use chicken thighs for juicier meat, dry white wine with brown sugar for Marsala, Greek yogurt for extra protein instead of cream. Add peas, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for more vegetables. Vegetarian: Replace chicken with white beans or chickpeas and use vegetable broth. Make-ahead: Sear chicken and cook vegetables ahead, refrigerate, then finish when ready to serve. Pro Tip: Stir orzo regularly to prevent sticking. Exact broth amount varies by brand and heat level. Add extra if orzo is firm but liquid is gone.
