08/30/2026
CRISPY MAPLE CHICKEN WITH CREAMY PUMPKIN ORZO
One skillet, glossy golden chicken, velvety orange orzo, crispy sage, and a maple-chili finish.
Ingredients
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
* Salt, black pepper, and 1 tsp smoked paprika
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 2 tbsp butter
* 3 garlic cloves, minced
* 1 cup orzo
* 2 cups chicken broth
* ¾ cup pumpkin purée
* ½ cup heavy cream
* ½ cup finely grated Parmesan
* 1 tsp Dijon mustard
* 1 tbsp maple syrup
* ½ tsp red pepper flakes
* 8–10 fresh sage leaves
* Optional finish: extra Parmesan, maple syrup, and flaky salt
Method
1. Pat the chicken very dry and season generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side until deeply golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
2. Lower the heat to medium. Add 1 tablespoon butter and the sage leaves. Fry until crisp, about 30–60 seconds, then remove the sage and set aside.
3. Add the garlic and orzo to the same pan. Stir for about 1 minute so the orzo gets lightly toasted.
4. Pour in the broth. Simmer, stirring occasionally, for 8–10 minutes until the orzo is tender and creamy.
5. Stir in the pumpkin, heavy cream, Parmesan, Dijon, maple syrup, red pepper flakes, and remaining tablespoon of butter. Season to taste.
6. Nestle the chicken back into the orzo. Spoon some of the creamy sauce over the top and simmer for another minute.
7. Finish with crispy sage, Parmesan, flaky salt, and the tiniest drizzle of maple syrup.