Few dishes capture the essence of comfort food with a gourmet touch like Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet. This dish is inspired by the flavors of white chicken lasagna, featuring tender chicken, creamy ricotta, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta, all brought together in a rich and flavorful sauce.
What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity—everything comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or hosting guests, this dish delivers bold flavors and a creamy, satisfying texture.
With garlic-infused chicken, sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a velvety ricotta sauce, every bite of this dish is rich, comforting, and irresistibly delicious.
Why This Recipe Will Become a Favorite
1. One-Pan Magic for Easy Cleanup
No one likes doing a sink full of dishes after dinner. This recipe is cooked entirely in one skillet, making it convenient, quick, and stress-free.
2. Creamy Without the Heavy Cream
Instead of traditional heavy cream, this dish uses whole milk ricotta cheese, which gives it a luscious, velvety texture while keeping it light and balanced.
3. High-Protein, Well-Balanced Meal
Packed with lean chicken, fiber-rich spinach, and satisfying orzo, this meal provides a perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates.
4. Layers of Bold Flavor
The combination of garlic, shallots, mushrooms, white wine, and Italian herbs gives this dish depth and complexity, making it taste like something you’d order at a restaurant.
5. Quick & Versatile
From start to finish, this dish comes together in under 40 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights. Plus, you can easily swap ingredients to match your dietary needs and preferences.
Ingredients: A Perfect Blend of Comfort and Flavor
- Chicken Breast – Juicy and seasoned, adding protein and heartiness.
- Orzo Pasta – Tiny, rice-like pasta that soaks up the creamy sauce.
- Ricotta Cheese – The key to a velvety, luscious texture.
- Mozzarella Cheese – Melts into a bubbly, golden topping.
- Garlic & Shallots – Aromatic and essential for depth of flavor.
- Baby Bella Mushrooms – Earthy and rich, complementing the creaminess.
- Spinach – Adds a pop of color and a boost of nutrients.
- White Wine & Chicken Broth – The perfect combination for a flavorful sauce.
- Lemon Zest & Juice – Brightens the dish with a hint of citrus.
- Italian Seasoning & Red Pepper Flakes – Infuses warmth and spice.
- Fresh Basil – A fragrant finishing touch.
Directions: A Simple Path to a Gourmet Meal
- Sear the Chicken – Cook seasoned chicken until golden brown.
- Sauté the Veggies – Soften mushrooms, shallots, and garlic for a fragrant base.
- Simmer the Orzo – Stir in broth, wine, ricotta, and seasonings, then bring to a simmer.
- Bake to Perfection – Add chicken back in, top with mozzarella, and bake until bubbly.
- Rest & Garnish – Let the skillet sit for a few minutes before topping with fresh basil.
Nutritional Breakdown: Indulgence with a Healthy Twist
- Calories: ~636 per serving
- Protein: ~43g
- Carbohydrates: ~38g
- Fat: ~32g (Saturated Fat: 14g)
- Sodium: ~1232mg
- Fiber: ~3g
- Calcium: ~320mg
Pro Tips for Perfecting Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet
1. Sear the Chicken for Maximum Flavor
Before adding the orzo, searing the chicken locks in moisture and adds a golden crust, which enhances the overall taste of the dish.
2. Deglaze with White Wine for a Depth of Flavor
Adding dry white wine to the pan helps lift caramelized bits off the bottom, infusing the dish with a subtle acidity that balances the richness.
3. Use Fresh Ricotta for the Best Texture
Opt for whole milk ricotta rather than low-fat versions for a smoother, creamier sauce. If you want a silkier consistency, blend the ricotta before adding it to the dish.
4. Let the Dish Rest Before Serving
After baking, let the skillet sit for a few minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and absorb into the orzo, creating a more cohesive dish.
5. Customize with Additional Vegetables
While spinach and mushrooms are included in the recipe, you can add:
- Sun-dried tomatoes for sweetness and a pop of color.
- Zucchini or bell peppers for a fresh, crisp contrast.
- Kale or arugula for an earthy, peppery bite.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About This Recipe
1. Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can use dairy-free ricotta (such as Kite Hill brand) and omit the mozzarella or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative.
2. What Can I Use Instead of Orzo?
If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute it with:
- Arborio rice (for a risotto-like texture)
- Couscous (for a lighter option)
- Quinoa (for a gluten-free, protein-packed twist)
3. Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish in advance, then reheat it in the oven or stovetop with a little extra broth to bring back the creaminess.
4. How Long Do Leftovers Last?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to keep the sauce from drying out.
5. Can I Freeze This Dish?
Because of the ricotta cheese, freezing is not recommended, as it may alter the texture. However, you can freeze the chicken and orzo separately, then combine and reheat with fresh ricotta when serving.
6. What Wine Pairs Well with This Dish?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy, herbaceous flavors beautifully. If you prefer red, try a light Pinot Noir.
7. How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you enjoy heat, try adding:
- Extra red pepper flakes
- Diced jalapeños
- A pinch of cayenne pepper
8. Can I Make This in a Slow Cooker?
Yes! Brown the chicken first, then add it to the slow cooker with the other ingredients except for ricotta and mozzarella. Cook on low for 4 hours, then stir in cheeses before serving.
Health Benefits of Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet
1. High-Protein & Satisfying
This dish offers over 40g of protein per serving, making it a great option for muscle recovery and energy.
2. Nutrient-Packed Ingredients
With spinach, mushrooms, garlic, and shallots, this dish is loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
3. Balanced Macronutrients
You get protein from chicken, fiber from vegetables, healthy fats from cheese, and carbs from orzo, creating a well-rounded meal.
4. Can Be Made Gluten-Free
Swap orzo for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb, gluten-free variation.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with This Dish
To round out the meal, consider serving this dish with:
- Garlic bread or crusty sourdough for scooping up the creamy sauce.
- A crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette to add freshness.
- Steamed asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts for extra greens.
Conclusion: A New Weeknight Favorite
Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet is a perfect balance of comfort and elegance, bringing together creamy textures, bold flavors, and wholesome ingredients in a single pan.
Whether you’re making this for a cozy dinner at home, a meal prep option, or a dish to impress guests, this versatile and easy-to-make meal is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home!
Print
Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet: A One-Pan Comfort Dish
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet is a one-pan wonder that combines tender chicken, creamy ricotta, and flavorful orzo for a comforting and satisfying meal. Packed with garlic, shallots, mushrooms, and spinach, this dish delivers gourmet flavors with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or entertaining guests, it’s creamy, indulgent, and incredibly delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 1 cup baby Bella mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- Zest and juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
- Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the skillet.
- Sauté the garlic, shallots, and mushrooms for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Cook the Orzo:
- Stir in the orzo and toast for 1 minute.
- Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Add chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer & Add Creaminess:
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet.
- Cover and let simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in the ricotta cheese, mozzarella, spinach, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Let everything cook for 2-3 more minutes until the spinach is wilted and the sauce is creamy.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil and additional mozzarella if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
- If avoiding wine, replace with additional chicken broth.
- For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free ricotta and omit the mozzarella.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add a splash of broth when reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
