Why You’ll Love This Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini Orzo

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, this one-skillet garlic butter chicken with zucchini orzo is exactly what you need.

Tender chicken, toasted orzo, and fresh zucchini come together in a savory blend, then get a luxurious finish with a rich garlic butter sauce.

It’s an easy, weeknight dinner that feels gourmet, with the perfect balance of satisfying textures and vibrant flavors.

Plus, with minimal cleanup, it’s the kind of meal you’ll want to make again and again!

For Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken

Chicken – You can use either boneless chicken breasts or thighs. Both work well, so choose based on your preference for white or dark meat.
Olive Oil – Helps with cooking the chicken and adds a bit of richness to the dish.
Italian Seasoning – This blend of herbs gives a flavorful depth to the chicken.
Dijon Mustard – Adds a slight tanginess that balances the richness of the butter and the honey.
Honey – Gives a subtle sweetness that complements the savory chicken.
Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – For seasoning the chicken, ensuring it’s flavorful and well-balanced.

For the Orzo and Sauce

Chicken Broth – Replaces white providing a savory depth that helps deglaze the pan and enhances the overall flavor.
Salted Butter – A key ingredient to making the garlic butter sauce, adding richness and flavor.
Shallots & Garlic – Provide depth and a savory foundation to the sauce.
Fresh Thyme – Adds a fragrant, herby note that pairs wonderfully with the garlic butter.
Orzo – This pasta is used as the base, soaking up all the delicious flavors from the sauce.
Zucchini – Sliced thin for texture and a fresh vegetable element.
Mozzarella Cheese – Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully and adds a creamy, mild finish to the dish.

Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini Orzo

Indulge in a one-skillet meal that combines succulent honey Dijon-glazed chicken with toasted orzo pasta, fresh zucchini, and creamy mozzarella.

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Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken

Prep Time: 20

Cook Time: 40

Total Time: 1

Servings:

.

Ingredients:

2 pounds boneless chicken breasts or thighs
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons honey
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 cup chicken broth
6 tablespoons salted butter
2 shallots, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
3 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
2 cups dry orzo pasta
2 zucchini, thinly sliced
8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of Italian seasoning, Dijon mustard, honey, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Toss to coat the chicken evenly.
Sear the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear it on both sides until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside.
Toast the orzo: In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter, shallots, garlic, orzo, and 2 tablespoons of thyme. Toss everything together and cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the orzo to lightly toast. Add the zucchini slices, and continue to cook for another minute.
Deglaze the skillet: Pour in the chicken broth, followed by 2 cups of water. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then return the chicken to the skillet, along with any juices from the plate. Arrange the mozzarella around the chicken. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake uncovered for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through..
Prepare the garlic butter: While the chicken is baking, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Once melted, let it brown lightly before adding 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, 1 tablespoon of thyme, salt, pepper, and optional chili flakes. Stir well and remove from heat.
Serve: Once the chicken is done, remove the skillet from the oven. Serve the chicken and orzo topped with the garlic butter and fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy!

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Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can absolutely use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs! While chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving, chicken breasts will work just as well—just be sure to cook them carefully to avoid drying them out.
What can I substitute for chicken broth in this recipe?
If you’d prefer not to use chicken broth, you can substitute it with vegetable broth or even water. These options will still provide the dish with a savory base and maintain its rich flavor without the chicken broth.
How do I prevent the orzo from getting too mushy?
The secret to perfect orzo? Don’t overcook it! Stick to the cooking time on the package and keep an eye on it while simmering. Also, make sure to stir it occasionally to avoid sticking. If you find it getting too thick, just add a bit more water to loosen it up.
Can I prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Make the garlic butter ahead and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just let it come to room temperature when you’re ready to use it, and it’ll melt beautifully over the chicken and orzo.
Do I have to bake the chicken in the oven?
Not at all! If you’re not in the mood for baking, you can easily cook everything on the stovetop. Just make sure to cook the chicken all the way through and let the orzo absorb all the flavors by simmering everything together.