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Creamy Garlic Thyme Chicken with Orzo

This dish features tender chicken pieces cooked with garlic and thyme, paired with orzo pasta that toasts and then simmers in savory broth to achieve a creamy, risotto-like texture. The final dish has a rich, velvety appearance with a blend of tender chicken and slightly al dente orzo, topped with fresh herbs and crispy salami bits for added crunch.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken thighs or breasts, cut into pieces
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
  • 2 slices Genoa salami, chopped for topping
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large skillet or wide saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering, and then add the chicken pieces. Cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes, then remove and set aside.
  2. Add minced garlic and fresh thyme to the same skillet, and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, the garlic should be fragrant and slightly golden.
  3. Stir in the orzo pasta, and toast it for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until it becomes lightly golden and fragrant.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the broth, developing a creamy consistency.
  5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the creamy orzo. Stir in grated parmesan cheese, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the chicken is heated through and flavors meld, adjusting salt and pepper as needed.
  6. While the dish finishes, crisp up the chopped salami slices in a small skillet over high heat for about 2 minutes until golden and slightly crunchy, then sprinkle over the top of your dish for added texture and flavor.
  7. Serve the creamy garlic thyme chicken and orzo hot, topped with the crispy salami bits for a flavorful contrast in texture and taste.

Notes

Feel free to add a squeeze of lemon or fresh herbs for extra brightness. For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end.