Creamy Italian Herb Chicken with Orzo and Zucchini
Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Creamy Italian Herb Chicken with Orzo and Zucchini skillet. This one-pan dish combines tender chicken breast sautéed with vibrant zucchini, creating a satisfying meal that's both simple and quick to prepare. The addition of Philadelphia Italian Cheese and Herb Cooking Creme adds a luxurious creaminess and rich Italian flavor that elevates this dish to a new level. Serve it over fluffy, hot orzo pasta for a dish that's perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With its balance of protein, vegetables, and carbs, this recipe is both nourishing and delicious!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
boneless skinless chicken breast
1 lb (cut into bite-size pieces)
zucchini
1 small (chopped)
Philadelphia Italian Cheese and Herb Cooking Creme
1 (10 ounce) container (none)
chopped tomato
1/2 cup (none)
hot cooked orzo pasta
2 cups (cooked according to package instructions)
Instructions
1
In a large nonstick skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the bite-sized pieces of chicken breast and chopped zucchini. Cook for 6 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the zucchini is tender.
2
Reduce the heat slightly and add the container of Philadelphia Italian Cheese and Herb Cooking Creme along with the chopped tomatoes. Stir the mixture well to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3
Serve the creamy chicken and vegetable mixture over a bed of hot cooked orzo pasta, garnishing if desired, and enjoy a taste of Italy right at home!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Italian Herb Chicken with Orzo and Zucchini?
It is a one-pan skillet dish featuring tender chicken breast, vibrant zucchini, and a luxurious Italian cheese and herb sauce served over orzo pasta.
How long does it take to cook the chicken and zucchini?
The chicken and zucchini should be cooked in a large nonstick skillet for approximately 6 to 7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
What type of pasta is used in this recipe?
This recipe specifically calls for 2 cups of hot cooked orzo pasta.
What is the key ingredient for the creamy sauce?
The rich creaminess comes from a 10-ounce container of Philadelphia Italian Cheese and Herb Cooking Creme.
How much chicken is required?
You will need 1 lb of boneless skinless chicken breast cut into bite-size pieces.
Can I use different vegetables besides zucchini?
While the recipe calls for one small chopped zucchini, you can experiment with other quick-cooking vegetables like bell peppers or yellow squash.
Is this a one-pan meal?
Yes, the chicken, vegetables, and sauce are all prepared in a single large skillet, though the orzo is cooked separately.
How do I prepare the chicken for this dish?
The chicken should be boneless and skinless, then cut into bite-size pieces for even cooking.
What size zucchini should I use?
A small zucchini, chopped, provides the perfect balance for the amount of chicken and sauce.
How much tomato is included?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of chopped tomatoes.
At what point do I add the cooking creme?
Add the cooking creme and tomatoes after the chicken is cooked through and the zucchini is tender.
How long should the sauce simmer?
Once the cooking creme and tomatoes are added, the mixture should simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
What heat setting should I use?
Start with medium heat to sauté the chicken and zucchini, then reduce slightly when adding the cream sauce.
How should the orzo be prepared?
The orzo should be cooked according to the instructions on its package before serving.
Is this recipe considered a quick meal?
Yes, with a sauté time of under 10 minutes and a short simmer, it is designed to be a fast and easy weeknight dinner.
What are the primary flavor profiles?
The dish features Italian herbs, savory cheese, and fresh garden notes from the zucchini and tomato.
Can I garnish this dish?
Yes, you can garnish the plated chicken and orzo as desired, perhaps with fresh herbs or extra cheese.
Is this recipe suitable for a family dinner?
Absolutely, it is described as a nourishing and delicious meal perfect for family gatherings.
What kind of skillet is recommended?
A large nonstick skillet is recommended to prevent the chicken and cream sauce from sticking.
Do I need to add oil to the pan?
The instructions suggest heating a tablespoon of olive oil in the skillet before adding the chicken.
What is the texture of the finished sauce?
The sauce is luxurious and creamy thanks to the specialized cooking creme.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
While the recipe specifies breasts, you can use boneless thighs if you prefer, though cooking times may vary slightly.
Is this considered comfort food?
Yes, the combination of creamy sauce and pasta makes it a classic comfort food dish.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 5 main ingredients: chicken, zucchini, cooking creme, tomatoes, and orzo.
Is the Philadelphia Cooking Creme essential?
It is the primary flavoring and thickening agent for the sauce in this specific recipe.
Can I make this dish for a party?
Yes, its simple preparation and elegant presentation make it great for gatherings.
Should the zucchini be peeled?
The recipe suggests chopping the zucchini; peeling is optional and usually not required for small zucchinis.
How do I serve the mixture?
Serve the creamy chicken and vegetable mixture directly over a bed of the hot, cooked orzo.
What category does this recipe fall into?
It is categorized as a chicken-based skillet dinner and a creamy pasta dish.
Is the chicken cooked before adding the sauce?
Yes, the chicken must be fully cooked through during the initial 6 to 7 minutes of sautéing.