Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Sear until golden brown on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.
- Remove chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add orzo and cherry tomatoes, cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Return chicken to skillet atop the orzo mixture. Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Transfer skillet to the oven and bake uncovered for 20 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for extra juiciness.
- Use other cheese varieties like mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavors.
- For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking, Searing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Comfort
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 520 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 125mg