When I first made this Skillet White Pesto Chicken and Orzo recipe, I knew it would become a favorite in my household. With just one pan, a rich, creamy sauce, and perfectly seasoned chicken, it’s a dream combination that’s both simple and elegant.

It’s the recipe I turn to when I need a quick weeknight meal or want to impress guests on a busy weekend. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why this dish is so special.

Credit: dishingouthealth

Ingredients

For this recipe, every ingredient plays an important role. Here’s what you’ll need and a tip for each to ensure the best outcome.

1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
These are the star of the dish. Don’t discard the flavorful oil from the jar! Use it to cook the chicken, as it adds depth and seasoning.
6 boneless chicken breasts or thighs
Choose chicken thighs for a juicier result or breasts for a leaner option. Seasoning is key to enhancing their flavor.
Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
Always season generously to bring out the best in the ingredients.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
This creates a light crust on the chicken and helps the sauce cling beautifully.
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
A blend of dried herbs like basil, oregano, and rosemary delivers classic flavors with ease.
2 tablespoons salted butter
Adds richness and helps toast the orzo.
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
Fresh garlic is a must for its aromatic, punchy flavor.
1 cup dry orzo pasta
This small pasta cooks quickly and absorbs all the delicious sauces.
A pinch of chili flakes
Optional but highly recommended for a slight kick of heat.
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.
1 cup heavy cream
For a luscious and velvety finish to the dish.
1/4 cup basil pesto
Homemade or store-bought, pesto adds vibrant, herby flavor.
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Freshly grated parmesan melts beautifully into the sauce. Avoid pre-shredded cheese.
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
A sprinkle of thyme adds a burst of freshness at the end.

Note: This recipe makes 6 servings.

Variations

Want to adapt this dish? Here are a few easy swaps and enhancements to suit your taste or dietary needs:

Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with canned coconut milk and use dairy-free pesto and parmesan.
Gluten-Free: Swap orzo for gluten-free pasta or rice.
Veggie Boost: Add a handful of spinach, diced zucchini, or mushrooms when cooking the orzo.
Extra Spice: Add more chili flakes or stir in a teaspoon of hot sauce.

If you’re looking for a twist, try this city chicken recipe for another delicious option.

Cooking Time

Here’s a breakdown of the cooking time for this recipe:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Equipment You Need

You’ll need just a few kitchen tools for this recipe:

Large oven-safe skillet (to cook everything in one pan, from stovetop to oven).
Tongs (to easily flip the chicken as it sears).
Mixing spoon (for stirring the orzo and sauce).
Knife and cutting board (for chopping garlic and thyme).

How to Make Skillet White Pesto Chicken and Orzo?

This recipe comes together in a few simple steps, and the best part? Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

Prepare the Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Start by draining the flavorful oil from a jar of oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes directly into your skillet. This oil is infused with herbs and spices, so it adds incredible flavor when cooking. Chop the tomatoes and set them aside for later.

Sear the Chicken

Season your chicken with kosher salt and black pepper. Coat each piece lightly in flour, which creates a golden crust and helps thicken the sauce. Heat the sun-dried tomato oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden on both sides, about 3-5 minutes per side. Before removing it from the skillet, sprinkle each piece with Italian seasoning for extra flavor. Set the chicken aside on a plate.

Toast the Orzo

Using the same skillet, melt butter and stir in garlic, orzo, and a pinch of chili flakes. The butter helps toast the orzo, enhancing its nutty flavor. This step takes just two minutes but makes a big difference in taste.

Create the Sauce

Pour in chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. After 3-5 minutes, mix in the heavy cream, pesto, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Stir well to create a rich and creamy base.

Combine and Bake

Return the chicken to the skillet, placing it on top of the orzo and sauce. Sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese and transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F. Bake for 10 minutes, uncovering the skillet to allow the cheese to melt and the sauce to bubble.

Credit: dishingouthealth

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

From my own experience, here’s what makes this recipe even more amazing:

Use a cast-iron skillet for even heat distribution and an extra layer of flavor.
Don’t skip toasting the orzo; it enhances its flavor significantly.
Freshly grate your parmesan cheese right before using it for the best melt and taste.
If the sauce thickens too much while baking, stir in a splash of extra broth before serving.

How to Serve Skillet White Pesto Chicken and Orzo?

This dish deserves a spot at the center of your table! Serve it family-style straight from the skillet for a rustic presentation. Garnish with additional parmesan and fresh thyme sprigs for a pop of elegance. Pair it with a crisp side salad or roasted vegetables to complete the meal. For a sticky and flavorful twist, you might also enjoy this sticky chicken recipe.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories: 437
Protein: 36g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 25g

(Note, values may vary depending on ingredient brands used.)

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is great for meal prepping or saving leftovers. Here’s how to store it:

Storing: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

There are so many reasons this recipe will be a go-to for your family. Here are just a few:

Simple and Quick: All the flavor of a complex dish in under an hour.
One-Pan Cleanup: Minimal dishes mean more time to relax.
Customizable: Easily adapt to dietary preferences or ingredient swaps.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of pesto, parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a memorable dish.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Easy enough for weeknights, elegant enough for entertaining.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a group, this Skillet White Pesto Chicken and Orzo is a dish that delivers satisfying comfort food with minimal effort. Enjoy the creamy, savory flavors, and don’t forget to take a photo before digging in! You can also enjoy similar chicken recipes for more inspiration.

Ash Tyrrell