Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced celery, carrots, and onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 6-8 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened.
- Create the Roux: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the softened vegetables. Stir constantly and cook for about one minute. This step is crucial for thickening the sauce and cooking out any raw flour taste.
- Build the Creamy Sauce: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Once smooth, whisk in the heavy cream, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, and chicken bouillon powder. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook the Orzo: Pour the uncooked orzo pasta into the simmering sauce. Stir well to combine and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently, stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking, for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Add the Chicken: Once the orzo is cooked to your liking, stir in the cooked and chopped chicken breasts. Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes, just until the chicken is heated through.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the pot from the heat and let it stand for a few minutes. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve warm.
Notes
Take time to properly soften the minced vegetables to build a deep flavor base. Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer when cooking the orzo and stir frequently to prevent sticking. For an easier prep, use a store-bought rotisserie chicken. The dish is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; add a splash of broth or milk when reheating to restore creaminess.
