Crispy Panko Chicken with Cheesy Orzo

This crispy panko chicken with creamy, cheesy orzo is an easy comfort-food dinner that feels a little elevated without being complicated. Golden panko-crusted chicken is topped with a simple herb sauce and served alongside rich, creamy orzo.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 egg

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Olive oil or cooking spray

For the Cheesy Orzo

• 1 cup orzo

• 2 cups chicken broth

• ½ cup milk

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Herb Sauce

• 2 tablespoons melted butter

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• Squeeze of fresh lemon juice

  
  

Directions

1. Prepare the chicken. Season chicken with salt and pepper. In one bowl, whisk the egg. In another, combine panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, and paprika.

2. Bread the chicken. Dip each chicken breast into the egg, then coat well with the panko mixture.

3. Cook until crispy. Heat a small amount of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for about 5–7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the center reaches 165°F.

4. Make the orzo. Add orzo and chicken broth to a saucepan and simmer until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

5. Make it cheesy. Reduce heat and stir in milk, cheddar, and Parmesan until creamy. Season with salt and pepper.

6. Finish the chicken. Mix melted butter with parsley, garlic powder, and lemon juice. Spoon over the crispy chicken just before serving.

7. Serve the chicken alongside a generous scoop of cheesy orzo.

Estimated Nutrition

Per Serving:

• Calories: ~650

• Protein: ~55g

• Fiber: ~2g

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings: 4