½cupthinly sliced assorted bell peppers(about 6 mini sweet peppers)
1½teaspoonsgrapeseed oil(or similar)
1tablespoonbutter
1cuporzo(uncooked)
2cupslow-sodium chicken broth
¼cupheavy cream
½cupgrated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Chicken
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
Mix together paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, cayenne, salt and pepper. Use half of the spice mixture to season the chicken.
Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium heat with oil and butter. Add the chicken and cook 3-4 minutes per side until browned.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and cook for another 8-10 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees. Remove from oven and rest.
Orzo
Meanwhile, heat oil in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the peppers and onions and cook until soft, approx. 7-8 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
Add butter to the saucepan. When melted, add the orzo and stir to coat with the butter. Add the remaining spice mixture and stir to coat the orzo. Cook for 1 minute.
Turn the heat up to medium and add the broth. Bring to a simmer, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the liquid has been absorbed. The orzo should be al dente.
Add the cream and cheese and stir until cheese is melted. Add the onions and peppers back in, reserving some for garnishing. Fold together.
Serve with sliced chicken.
Notes
Sauté the peppers and shallots while searing the chicken. Then, simmer the orzo while the chicken finishes in the oven. Dinner will be ready in no time!
Cook orzo with chicken or vegetable broth for added flavor.
Always use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to 165 degrees. The amount of cooking time will vary depending on the size and cut of the chicken used.
Recipe variations: Shrimp and sausage pair wonderfully with Cajun flavors. Substitute shrimp or sausage for the chicken or use a combination.
Reheat the orzo in a saucepan over low-medium heat. Stir in some chicken broth or cream to loosen the consistency as needed. The chicken can be reheated in the microwave and served with the orzo.