Do Share Recipe

Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken And Zucchini Orzo Recipe | Easy & Flavorful

I recently tried this Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken and Zucchini Orzo Recipe, and honestly, it has quickly become one of my favorite weeknight dinners. The combination of tender chicken, garlicky butter, and fresh zucchini tossed with creamy orzo is just irresistible. I love how everything cooks in one skillet, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy the meal.

The flavors are fresh, comforting, and surprisingly easy to pull together. Every bite tastes like a cozy, gourmet dinner made effortlessly at home. You can also enjoy similar light desserts after this meal, like Mini Lemon Cream Puffs Recipe, to finish on a sweet note.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need for this delicious skillet meal, along with my tips for making it even better:

1 lb chicken breasts or thighs – I prefer chicken breasts for tenderness; thighs add more flavor.
1 tablespoon olive oil – use extra virgin for richer flavor.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – this blend boosts flavor without extra fuss.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – adds a subtle tang that pairs perfectly with honey.
1 tablespoon honey – balances the savory chicken beautifully.
3 tablespoons butter – real butter makes the dish rich and creamy.
1 cup orzo pasta – small pasta cooks quickly and soaks up the flavors.
3 cloves garlic, minced – fresh garlic is key; avoid pre-minced jars.
1 zucchini, diced – fresh, firm zucchini works best; avoid frozen.
½ cup white wine – optional but enhances the overall depth of flavor.
½ cup water or chicken broth – adds moisture while cooking orzo.
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese – fresh, shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded.
Fresh basil or thyme for garnish – brightens the dish and adds a fresh aroma.

Note: This recipe serves approximately 4 people.

Variations

You can tweak this recipe to fit your dietary needs or flavor preferences:

Swap mozzarella for a dairy-free cheese to make it vegan-friendly.
Replace butter with olive oil for a lighter version.
Use gluten-free orzo or rice for gluten-free diets.
Add cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra color and nutrients. You can even add a twist like Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella alongside this dish for a complete meal.
Spice it up with crushed red pepper flakes for a kick.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Equipment You Need

Large oven-safe skillet – perfect for searing chicken and finishing in the oven.
Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring orzo and vegetables.
Measuring cups and spoons – to get accurate flavors.
Knife and cutting board – for chopping zucchini and garlic.
Small saucepan (optional) – if making extra garlic butter separately.

How to Make Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken and Zucchini Orzo Recipe

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

I like to toss the chicken with olive oil, Italian seasoning, Dijon mustard, and honey. This gives a light glaze and flavorful sear. Heat your skillet and sear each side until golden, then remove it from the pan.

Step 2: Prepare the Orzo

In the same skillet, melt butter and add orzo with garlic and herbs. Toast the orzo lightly for a nutty flavor. Pour in wine and water or broth, then stir until the orzo begins to absorb the liquid.

Step 3: Combine and Bake

Place the chicken back in the skillet, arranging mozzarella around it. Bake in a preheated oven for 10-15 minutes until the cheese melts and chicken is cooked through.

Step 4: Optional Garlic Butter Drizzle

While the chicken bakes, melt extra butter in a small pan with Italian seasoning and garlic. Let it turn lightly golden. Drizzle over the chicken and orzo just before serving for extra richness.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

I like to pat the chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect sear.
Toasting the orzo first gives it a deeper, richer flavor.
I always use fresh herbs for garnish; it adds a bright, fresh finish.
Letting the garlic butter get slightly golden enhances the aroma and taste.
I sometimes broil for a minute at the end for a bubbly, golden cheese top.

How to Serve Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken and Zucchini Orzo Recipe

Serve this dish straight from the skillet for a rustic look. I love topping it with fresh basil or a sprinkle of parmesan. Pair with a simple green salad or crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce. For a colorful presentation, add a few cherry tomatoes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick snapshot of what you get per serving:

Calories: ~450 kcal – hearty but balanced.
Protein: 35 g – thanks to the chicken and orzo.
Carbohydrates: 30 g – from the orzo and honey.
Fat: 18 g – mainly from butter and cheese for richness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing

I like to store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing

This dish freezes well without the cheese. Freeze in a container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the orzo creamy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why I keep coming back to it:

Easy to make – just one skillet and minimal prep.
Flavor-packed – garlic butter, fresh herbs, and honey Dijon chicken.
Versatile – swap ingredients based on your pantry or dietary needs.
Quick weeknight meal – ready in under 40 minutes.
Crowd-pleaser – perfect for family dinners or casual entertaining.

Ben Carraoli