Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet Recipe: Dinner Magic

Whipping up a creamy ricotta chicken and orzo skillet promises a delightful culinary adventure that will make your taste buds dance.

Comfort meets elegance in this one-pan wonder, blending tender chicken with silky ricotta.

Pasta lovers will swoon over the rich, velvety sauce coating each perfectly cooked orzo grain.

Mediterranean flavors mingle effortlessly, creating a meal that feels both sophisticated and homey.

Weeknight dinners just got a serious upgrade with this simple yet impressive dish.

Minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction await you in this irresistible skillet masterpiece.

Ingredients To Make Ricotta Chicken Skillet

• Chicken: Lean protein that forms the main component of the dish.
• Ricotta Cheese: Creamy Italian cheese that adds richness and texture.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully to create a golden, bubbly topping.

• Garlic, Shallot: Provide a fragrant and flavorful base for the dish.
• Mushrooms, Baby Spinach: Add earthy depth and nutritional value.
• Lemon Zest, Lemon Juice: Brighten the overall flavor profile.

• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and adding a subtle richness.
• Italian Seasoning, Salt, Black Pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance the chicken's flavor.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a subtle heat to the dish.
• White Wine: Provides depth and helps deglaze the pan.
• Chicken Broth: Creates a flavorful liquid base for cooking the orzo.
• Orzo: Small pasta that absorbs the dish's flavors and provides a creamy texture.
• Fresh Basil: Adds a fresh, aromatic garnish.

Cooking Instructions For Ricotta Chicken Skillet

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit, getting it ready for the delicious meal ahead.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.

• Salt
• Pepper
• Italian seasoning
• Crushed red pepper flakes

Cook the chicken until golden brown, creating a beautiful color and initial flavor.

Move the partially cooked chicken to a clean plate.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Add garlic, shallots, and mushrooms to the same skillet.

Cook until mushrooms soften and shallots become tender, about 4 minutes.

Step 4: Wilt the Spinach

Gently toss baby spinach into the skillet, cooking until just wilted, which takes around 2 minutes.

Step 5: Deglaze with Wine

Pour white wine into the skillet and cook until the liquid reduces by half, about 2 minutes.

Step 6: Build the Skillet Dish

Introduce orzo to the skillet and combine.

• Broth
• Lemon zest
• Lemon juice
• Salt
• Ricotta cheese

Bring the mixture to a simmer, then return the chicken to the skillet.

Spread everything evenly and sprinkle mozzarella on top.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.

Bake for 15 minutes until orzo is tender and cheese is brown and bubbly.

Step 8: Rest and Garnish

Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 3-5 minutes.

This allows the sauce to settle and thicken.

Top with fresh basil.

Step 9: Dairy-Free Option

For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free ricotta and either skip the cheese topping or use dairy-free shredded cheese.

Tips For Ricotta Chicken And Orzo Skillet

• Brown chicken thoroughly for rich flavor development and extra texture, ensuring golden edges without fully cooking through.
• Let the dish rest 3-5 minutes after baking to allow sauce to naturally thicken and absorb liquid, creating a more cohesive meal.
• Swap dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like dairy-free ricotta and vegan cheese for lactose-intolerant or dairy-sensitive diners.
• Add fresh basil right before serving to maintain vibrant color and release maximum aromatic oils for enhanced taste profile.
• Adjust red pepper flakes and Italian seasoning quantities to personalize heat intensity and match individual flavor preferences.

Ideas To Change Ricotta Chicken Skillet

• Vegetarian Protein Swap: Replace chicken with firm tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas for a plant-based protein alternative that absorbs the delicious seasonings.
• Mediterranean Fusion: Substitute orzo with quinoa, add kalamata olives, and use feta cheese instead of ricotta for a Greek-inspired version with tangy Mediterranean flavors.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free orzo or replace with cauliflower rice to make the dish suitable for those avoiding wheat-based grains while maintaining the creamy texture.
• Spicy Southwest Remix: Swap Italian seasoning for chili powder, add diced green chiles, use pepper jack cheese, and finish with fresh cilantro for a zesty southwestern-style skillet meal.

Serving Ideas For Ricotta Chicken Skillet

• Gourmet Game Night: Invite friends over and serve this skillet as a crowd-pleasing centerpiece with crisp white wine and fresh bread.
• Elegant Dinner Date: Plate the dish with a delicate side salad and candlelight for a romantic, restaurant-quality meal at home.
• Leftover Magic: Transform remaining chicken and orzo into a cold Mediterranean-style salad by adding cucumber, olives, and extra herbs the next day.
• Healthy Lunch Prep: Pack individual portions in meal prep containers for a nutritious, flavorful work lunch that reheats beautifully.

Storage Tips For Ricotta Chicken Skillet

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent absorption of other food odors.
• Place portions in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few drops of water or broth to prevent dryness. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel, heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to distribute heat evenly.
• Preheat oven to 350℉. Transfer leftovers to an oven-safe dish, add a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out. Cover with foil to retain moisture, warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta like small shells, ditalini, or even Israeli couscous. Just adjust cooking time based on the pasta you choose.

• What if I don't have white wine?

No worries! You can replace white wine with chicken broth or vegetable broth. The goal is to add liquid and help deglaze the pan, so any light-flavored liquid will work.

• Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! This skillet meal reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Just gently reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.

Creamy Ricotta Chicken And Orzo Skillet Appeal

• Whip Up a One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy the simplicity of preparing this entire meal in a single skillet, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor without extra dishes.
• Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients or modify for dietary needs like dairy-free options, making this recipe adaptable for various preferences and restrictions.
• Pack in Nutrition Powerhouse: Combine protein-rich chicken, nutrient-dense spinach, and hearty orzo for a balanced meal that delivers both taste and wholesome ingredients.
• Elevate Weeknight Cooking: Transform an ordinary dinner into a restaurant-quality experience with minimal effort, bringing gourmet flavors right to your home kitchen.

Creamy Ricotta Chicken and Orzo Skillet Recipe

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4.5 from 17 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent ricotta chicken and orzo skillet delivers a Mediterranean-inspired comfort meal with rich, silky flavors. Effortless one-pan magic brings savory chicken, tender orzo, and creamy ricotta together for a quick dinner you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Proteins:

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into 1-inch cubes)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• ¾ cup whole milk ricotta cheese

Produce and Seasonings:

• 2 garlic cloves minced
• 1 large shallot halved and thinly sliced
• 8 ounces baby bella mushrooms thinly sliced
• 4 cups baby spinach packed
• ¼ cup thinly sliced basil leaves
• Zest of ½ lemon
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Liquid and Dry Ingredients:

• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• ½ cup dry white wine
• 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

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Instructions

1. Ignite the oven to a precise 375℉, preparing for a culinary transformation.
2. Elevate a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat with oil. Introduce chicken seasoned with salt, pepper, Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes. Sauté until the exterior achieves a golden, caramelized appearance. Remove partially cooked chicken to a separate plate.
3. In the same skillet, introduce minced garlic, diced shallots, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for approximately 4 minutes until mushrooms soften and shallots become translucent.
4. Gently fold in baby spinach, allowing leaves to wilt gracefully for about 2 minutes.
5. Deglaze the skillet with white wine, reducing liquid by half within 2 minutes.
6. Incorporate orzo, stirring to coat. Pour in broth, lemon zest, lemon juice, and ricotta. Mix thoroughly, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reintroduce the chicken, ensuring even distribution. Sprinkle mozzarella across the surface.
7. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes until orzo reaches tender perfection and cheese transforms into a bubbling, golden crust.
8. Allow the dish to rest 3-5 minutes, permitting sauce to harmonize and thicken.
9. Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately. For dairy-sensitive individuals, substitute ricotta with dairy-free alternatives and use plant-based cheese or omit cheese topping entirely.

Notes

• Ensure the skillet is truly oven-safe to prevent handle melting or potential kitchen accidents during baking.
• Choose high-quality chicken breasts cut uniformly for even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
• Swap orzo with cauliflower rice for a low-carb version that maintains the creamy, comforting essence of the original recipe.
• Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the final presentation and add a bright, aromatic finish to the skillet meal.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 391 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 606 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 26 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 34 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg