Are you ready to transform your weeknight dinner from ordinary to extraordinary? This mouthwatering orzo dish is about to become your new obsession! Imagine a perfect harmony of tender chicken, earthy shiitake mushrooms, and vibrant red peppers, all nestled in creamy, perfectly cooked orzo pasta. It's not just a meal—it's a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and impress even the pickiest eaters in your family.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: orzo pasta, chicken breasts, red bell pepper, shiitake mushrooms, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- In a large pot, bring 4 cups of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the orzo is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced chicken breasts to the skillet.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Next, add the chopped red bell pepper and sliced shiitake mushrooms to the skillet. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- When the orzo is done cooking, drain it in a colander and then add it directly to the skillet with the chicken and vegetables. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. If the mixture seems dry, you can add a splash of olive oil or a little bit of chicken broth to moisten it.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the orzo with chicken, red pepper, and shiitakes hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil if desired.
Tips
- Always salt your pasta water generously - this is your first chance to build flavor into the dish.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches exactly 165°F for perfect doneness and food safety.
- Choose fresh, high-quality shiitake mushrooms for the most robust flavor and best texture.
- Don't overcook the orzo - aim for al dente to prevent a mushy final dish.
- Let the dish rest for a couple of minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld together.
- For extra richness, consider adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 232kcal
Carbohydrates: 17g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 55mg
