One Pot Chicken Orzo Recipe

There’s nothing like a dish that’s both elegant and effortless, and this One Pot Chicken Orzo fits the bill perfectly. Imagine tender chicken, creamy orzo, and vibrant veggies simmered together in a rich, savory broth. This dish has all the comfort of a risotto with none of the fuss – and just one pot to clean!

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I discovered this recipe on a weeknight when the clock was ticking, and takeout felt like my only option. With a few pantry staples and a single pan, I whipped up this family-pleasing meal that’s now a regular in our house. Let’s get started on this one-pan wonder!

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Chicken Orzo

Get ready to fall head over heels for this One Pot Chicken Orzo – it’s a meal that truly has it all.

First off, it’s quick and easy. From prep to plate, you can have dinner ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

This dish is also a complete meal in itself. With tender chicken, creamy pasta, and fresh vegetables, you won’t need to worry about sides or extra dishes.

It’s a crowd-pleaser. The mild, creamy flavor appeals to kids and adults alike, while the vibrant colors and textures make it a feast for the eyes as well.

Finally, the one-pot cooking method means minimal cleanup. No more juggling multiple pans – everything comes together in one skillet for maximum convenience.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to this recipe lies in its simple, flavorful ingredients that come together beautifully.

• Chicken thighs: These stay juicy and flavorful throughout cooking, but you can use chicken breasts if preferred. Dice them into bite-sized pieces for faster cooking.
• Orzo: This rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and absorbs the broth’s flavors, creating a creamy, risotto-like texture.
• Vegetables: I like to use spinach and cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and freshness, but zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers work too.
• Chicken broth: Use a good-quality broth for a rich, savory base. You can substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
• Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a creamy, nutty finish that ties the whole dish together.
• Garlic and onion: These aromatic staples form the foundation of the dish’s flavor.

For equipment, all you need is a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven.

How to Make This One Pot Chicken Orzo

This dish comes together in a few simple steps, making it perfect for even the busiest evenings.

1. Cook the chicken: Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 pound of diced chicken thighs (or breasts), seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear for 4-5 minutes until golden brown, then transfer to a plate.
2. Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil and sauté 1 diced onion and 3 minced garlic cloves until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
3. Toast the orzo: Stir in 1 cup of orzo, letting it toast for 1-2 minutes. This step enhances the pasta’s flavor and gives it a slightly nutty aroma.
4. Simmer the dish: Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the chicken back to the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and cover. Let it cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
5. Add veggies and cheese: Stir in 2 cups of baby spinach and 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, cooking just until wilted. Finish with a generous handful of grated Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
6. Serve and enjoy: Let the dish rest for a couple of minutes, then serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or basil if desired.

Storage Options

This One Pot Chicken Orzo is just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully over time, so it might even taste better the next day!
• Freezer: While the orzo may soften slightly, you can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to restore the creamy consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best parts of this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Make it vegetarian: Skip the chicken and double the veggies, or add chickpeas for a protein boost.
• Add more veggies: Try mushrooms, peas, asparagus, or roasted red peppers for additional flavor and texture.
• Swap the protein: Use shrimp, sausage, or even leftover rotisserie chicken to switch things up.
• Use different cheese: Goat cheese, feta, or Pecorino Romano can be delicious substitutes for Parmesan.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute the orzo with gluten-free pasta or rice for a celiac-friendly version.

Feel free to experiment with herbs and spices – a pinch of red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can transform the dish entirely.

This One Pot Chicken Orzo is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With its creamy texture, bold flavors, and effortless cleanup, it’s destined to become a favorite in your household. Try it tonight, and see why this one-pot recipe is a true game-changer!

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