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:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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..
6. 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.
7. 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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