Chicken Gorgonzola with Orzo

Chicken Gorgonzola with Orzo Recipe from Italy | Ingredients: chicken breast, onion, chicken broth, orzo, Italian seasoning, lemon pepper, gorgonzola

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken Gorgonzola with Orzo is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy Gorgonzola cheese, and hearty orzo pasta. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or for entertaining guests.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional Italian flavors. Gorgonzola cheese, known for its rich and tangy taste, pairs perfectly with the tender chicken and savory pasta. The combination of ingredients creates a dish that is both comforting and elegant.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
1 large onion, chopped
1 can (14.5 oz (411 g)) chicken broth
1.5 cups uncooked orzo pasta
0.75 tsp italian seasoning
0.5 tsp lemon pepper
0.33 cup crumbled gorgonzola cheese

How to prepare

Remove the fat from the chicken and cut it into half-inch strips.
Spray a 10-inch skillet with cooking spray and heat it over medium-high heat.
Cook the chicken in the skillet until it is browned, which should take about 2 minutes.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Spray the skillet with cooking spray and cook the onion over medium-high heat until it is tender, stirring often (about 4 minutes).
Stir in the broth, pasta, seasoning, lemon pepper, and chicken.
Heat the mixture to boiling, then reduce the heat to low.
Simmer uncovered for 11 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is just tender. Remove from heat.
Stir in the Gorgonzola cheese and serve.

Variations

Substitute blue cheese for the Gorgonzola for a different flavor profile.
Add cooked spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cut the chicken into uniform strips to ensure even cooking.

- Cooking the pasta in the broth allows it to absorb all the delicious flavors of the dish.

- Stirring occasionally while simmering will help prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken Gorgonzola with Orzo with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the chicken before simmering it with the pasta helps to lock in the flavors.

- Simmering the pasta in the broth allows it to absorb all the delicious flavors of the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.

- Substitute chicken thighs for the chicken breasts if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Chicken Gorgonzola with Orzo with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chicken Gorgonzola with Orzo contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chicken Gorgonzola with Orzo contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chicken Gorgonzola with Orzo contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Chicken Gorgonzola with Orzo contains approximately 30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (Gorgonzola cheese) and wheat (pasta).

Summary

Chicken Gorgonzola with Orzo is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Chicken Gorgonzola with Orzo is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or for entertaining guests. With its creamy cheese, tender chicken, and hearty pasta, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Chicken Gorgonzola with Orzo. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through an old recipe box that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I sifted through the yellowed index cards and faded clippings, my eyes landed on a handwritten note that simply read, "Chicken Gorgonzola with Orzo."

I had never heard of such a dish before, but something about the name piqued my interest. I could almost taste the creamy Gorgonzola sauce and tender chicken, paired perfectly with the delicate orzo pasta. Without hesitation, I set out to learn how to make this mysterious and tantalizing recipe.

I decided to start by asking my close friends and neighbors if they had ever heard of Chicken Gorgonzola with Orzo. To my surprise, one of my dearest friends, Mrs. Jenkins, not only knew about the dish but had actually tasted it before. She explained that her late husband, a world traveler, had picked up the recipe during a trip to Italy many years ago.

Over a cup of tea, Mrs. Jenkins shared with me the secrets of making the perfect Chicken Gorgonzola with Orzo. She told me about the importance of using high-quality ingredients, such as fresh herbs and imported Gorgonzola cheese, to bring out the true flavors of the dish. She also gave me tips on how to properly cook the chicken and orzo to ensure they were both tender and flavorful.

Armed with Mrs. Jenkins' wisdom, I set out to gather the ingredients for my first attempt at making Chicken Gorgonzola with Orzo. I carefully selected a plump chicken breast, a block of tangy Gorgonzola cheese, and a box of orzo pasta from the local market. I also picked up some fresh basil and parsley to add a burst of freshness to the dish.

As I began to prepare the recipe, I found myself lost in a world of aromas and flavors. The chicken sizzled in the pan, the Gorgonzola cheese melted into a creamy sauce, and the orzo pasta cooked to perfection. I could hardly contain my excitement as I plated the dish and took my first bite.

The flavors danced on my palate, each bite a symphony of tangy cheese, savory chicken, and tender orzo. I couldn't believe that I had created such a delectable dish with just a few simple ingredients and a bit of guidance from Mrs. Jenkins. I knew that Chicken Gorgonzola with Orzo would become a staple in my recipe book for years to come.

To this day, whenever I make Chicken Gorgonzola with Orzo, I think of that warm summer day when curiosity led me to discover a new and delicious recipe. I am grateful for the friends and mentors who have shared their culinary wisdom with me, allowing me to pass down the traditions of good food and good company to future generations.

So, if you ever find yourself in search of a mouthwatering and unforgettable dish, look no further than Chicken Gorgonzola with Orzo. It may just become a favorite in your own recipe box, passed down from generation to generation, just like it has in mine. Bon appétit!