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Easy One Skillet Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken and Orzo. photo

One Skillet Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken and Orzo.

This One Skillet Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken and Orzo is a weeknight winner! Creamy goat cheese and tender chicken come together for a delightful meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Stuffing:
  • 4 ounces goat cheese crumbled
  • 1 cup fresh basil chopped
  • 1/4 cup toasted walnuts finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes
For the Chicken:
  • 4 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon salted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic minced or grated
For the Orzo:
  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 bunch kale roughly torn
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Sharp knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

Instructions
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled goat cheese, chopped basil, toasted walnuts, fresh thyme, a pinch of kosher salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix until well combined and set aside.
  2. Using a sharp knife, carefully create a pocket in each chicken breast. Stuff each pocket with the goat cheese mixture, pressing it in gently to ensure it stays put.
  3. In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil and salted butter over medium-high heat. Season the stuffed chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
  5. Add the dry orzo to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the garlic-infused oil. Pour in the low sodium chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Allow the orzo to cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until it is al dente.
  6. Once the orzo is nearly cooked, stir in the torn kale and return the stuffed chicken to the skillet. Drizzle the honey over the chicken and cover the skillet. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
  7. Remove the skillet from the heat and drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the dish. Allow it to sit for a few minutes while the flavors meld together.
  8. Garnish with additional fresh basil and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious One Skillet Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken and Orzo with a side salad or on its own!

Notes

  • This dish can be made ahead and frozen before cooking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
  • Feel free to substitute the goat cheese with cream cheese, feta, or mozzarella.
  • For a different pasta option, you can use rice or quinoa instead of orzo.