In the world of cooking, finding a quick yet delicious meal can be a real challenge. However, when it comes to using rice - shape orzo, you're in for a treat. Orzo, that tiny pasta resembling rice, is an absolute gem in the kitchen, especially when it comes to making a speedy skillet dinner.

One of the great things about orzo is its versatility. It can absorb flavors like a sponge, making it a perfect base for a wide variety of ingredients. Whether you're a fan of chicken, vegetables, or a combination of both, orzo can hold its own and create a mouth - watering dish.

Let's start with the chicken. Chicken is a staple in many households, and for good reason. It's lean, protein - rich, and can be cooked in numerous ways. For this skillet dinner, we'll use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. First, season the chicken with a blend of your favorite herbs and spices. A simple mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika can work wonders. Heat a bit of olive oil in a large skillet over medium - high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and cook it until it's golden brown on the outside and cooked through on the inside. This usually takes about 6 - 8 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Now, it's time to work on the orzo. Add a little more olive oil to the same skillet if needed. Pour in the orzo and toast it for a couple of minutes until it starts to turn a light golden color. Toasting the orzo gives it a nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish. Next, add some chopped onions and cook them until they're translucent. Onions add a sweet and savory flavor to the dish. You can also throw in some minced garlic at this stage. Garlic is a flavor powerhouse and can really elevate the taste of the orzo.

After the onions and garlic are cooked, it's time to add some liquid. You can use chicken broth, vegetable broth, or a combination of both. The liquid will help the orzo cook and absorb all the flavors. Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the orzo simmer for about 10 - 12 minutes, or until it's tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.

While the orzo is cooking, you can prepare the vegetables. You can choose your favorite vegetables for this dish. Some great options include cherry tomatoes, spinach, and bell peppers. Cherry tomatoes add a burst of freshness, spinach is packed with nutrients, and bell peppers come in a variety of colors and add a sweet crunch. Once the orzo is almost done, add the vegetables to the skillet. If you're using cherry tomatoes, you can cut them in half. The heat from the orzo will cook the vegetables slightly and infuse their flavors into the dish.

Now, it's time to put the chicken back into the skillet. Cut the cooked chicken into slices and add it to the orzo and vegetable mixture. Stir everything together gently to combine all the flavors. You can also add a splash of lemon juice at this stage. Lemon juice adds a bright, citrusy flavor that cuts through the richness of the chicken and orzo. Season the dish with a bit more salt and pepper if needed.

For an extra touch of flavor, you can sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the dish. Parmesan cheese adds a creamy, salty flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken, orzo, and vegetables. Let the dish sit for a couple of minutes before serving so that the flavors can meld together even more.

This speedy skillet dinner with orzo is not only delicious but also easy to make. It's a great option for busy weeknights when you don't have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. You can customize the dish based on your preferences and the ingredients you have on hand. So, the next time you're looking for a quick and tasty meal, give this orzo skillet dinner a try!