CREAMY CHICKEN ORZO

This comforting, risotto-style creamy chicken orzo is flavored simply with carrots, celery, onions, and garlic. Serve with crusty bread, and dinner is complete!

INGREDIENTS

  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
  • 2 ribs celery, chopped (about 1 cup)
  • 2 large carrots, peeled and cut into 1/3-inch pieces (about 1 cup)
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 8 cups chicken stock
  • 2–3 cups shredded cooked chicken
  • 1 pound orzo
  • 1 tablespoon minced flat-leaf parsley
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
  • 1 ¼ teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the onion, celery, carrots, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Sauté until the onion turns translucent, about 7 minutes.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Pour in the chicken stock, increase the heat to high, and bring to a boil.
  • Once boiling, add the shredded chicken and orzo. Reduce the heat to medium and mix in the parsley, remaining salt, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and black pepper.
  • Simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, the orzo is creamy, and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

NUTRITION INFORMATION (PER SERVING)

  • Calories: 326
  • Protein: 24g
  • Carbohydrates: 44g
  • Total Fat: 7g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 211mg
  • Total Sugars: 8g

Serve warm with crusty bread and enjoy!