Chicken Parmesan with Creamy Marinara Orzo (Easy Dinner for Two)
Crispy breaded chicken topped with melted mozzarella, served over orzo tossed in a creamy marinara. A simple, complete dinner for two built from a few familiar ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 large chicken breast
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- ½ cup all-purpose flour for dredging
- 1 egg
- Splash of milk
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Neutral oil for shallow frying
For the Orzo
- ½ cup dry orzo
- 1½ cups prepared marinara sauce recipe in the post
- 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream
- 4-6 ounces fresh mozzarella sliced
Instructions
- Pound the chicken breast to an even thickness (not too thin), then cut into two equal pieces. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Place flour in one bowl. In a second bowl, whisk the egg with a splash of milk. In a third bowl, combine panko and grated Parmesan.
- Dredge each piece in flour, dip into the egg mixture, then coat in the panko-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently so it sticks.
- Heat a shallow layer of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook orzo according to package directions. Drain.
- In a saucepan, warm the marinara. Stir in the cream, then add the cooked orzo and toss to coat.
- Place each piece of chicken into an individual baking dish. Spoon the marinara orzo over the chicken.
- Top with sliced mozzarella. Place under the broiler for 2–4 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned.
Notes
Nutrition Facts
Approximate per serving — based on 2 servings
| Calories | 720 |
| Protein | 45g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fat | 40g |
| Saturated Fat | 16g |
| Cholesterol | 180mg |
| Sodium | 1100mg |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugar | 6g |
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.