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One Pot Chicken Orzo

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Short Description

One pot chicken orzo is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy orzo pasta, and a rich, savory broth—all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup. With garlic, lemon, and Parmesan for extra flavor, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights and ready in under 30 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • One-pot meal – Minimal dishes for easy cleanup.
  • Quick and easy – Ready in about 30 minutes.
  • Creamy and flavorful – Orzo absorbs all the delicious seasonings.
  • Customizable – Add veggies, different proteins, or extra spices.
  • Perfect for meal prep – Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Chicken breasts or thighs (boneless, skinless)
  • Orzo pasta
  • Chicken broth
  • Olive oil
  • Garlic (minced)
  • Onion (chopped)
  • Lemon juice and zest
  • Heavy cream or milk (optional for extra creaminess)
  • Parmesan cheese (grated)
  • Spinach (optional for added greens)
  • Cherry tomatoes (optional for a burst of freshness)
  • Salt and pepper
  • Red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

this recipe
  1. Cook the chicken – Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
  2. Sauté the aromatics – In the same pan, add more olive oil if needed and sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.
  3. Toast the orzo – Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden.
  4. Add broth and cook – Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender (about 10 minutes).
  5. Slice the chicken – While the orzo cooks, slice or shred the cooked chicken.
  6. Combine everything – Stir in the Parmesan cheese, heavy cream (if using), and spinach. Add the chicken back to the pan and mix well.
  7. Garnish and serve – Top with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and red pepper flakes if desired. Enjoy warm!

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep time: 10 minutes
  • Cook time: 20 minutes
  • Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy version – Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
  • Vegetarian option – Replace chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas.
  • Extra creamy – Stir in more Parmesan and a splash of heavy cream.
  • Mediterranean twist – Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese.
  • Herb-infused – Stir in fresh basil or thyme for extra depth.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Not recommended, as the orzo may become mushy.
  • Reheating: Warm in a skillet with a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta?

Orzo works best, but small pasta like ditalini or couscous can be used.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes! Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut.

How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?

Stir frequently while cooking and add more broth if needed.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Skip the Parmesan and heavy cream or use a dairy-free alternative.

What’s the best broth to use?

Low-sodium chicken broth is ideal for controlling salt levels.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Try bell peppers, mushrooms, peas, or zucchini.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Sauté the ingredients, then pressure cook on high for 5 minutes.

What protein can I use instead of chicken?

Shrimp, turkey, or even tofu can be used as substitutes.

How do I make this more lemony?

Increase the lemon juice or add lemon zest right before serving.

What pairs well with this dish?

Serve with a side salad, roasted veggies, or garlic bread.

Conclusion

One pot chicken orzo is a simple, creamy, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy nights. With minimal cleanup and endless customization options, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. Try it tonight and enjoy a comforting, satisfying meal!

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One Pot Chicken Orzo

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  • Author: clara
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: One-Pot, Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Print Recipe

Description

This One-Pot Chicken Orzo is a creamy, flavorful, and easy dinner made with tender chicken, orzo pasta, and a rich, garlicky sauce. Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze! Perfect for busy weeknights when you want a comforting, home-cooked meal in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Orzo & Sauce:

  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (for freshness)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

  1. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Sear the chicken for 5–6 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics & Toast the Orzo

  1. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic and onion for 2 minutes, until fragrant.
  2. Add orzo pasta and stir for 1–2 minutes, toasting slightly.

Step 3: Simmer the Orzo

  1. Pour in chicken broth and Italian seasoning, stirring to combine.
  2. Bring to a simmer and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Finish the Dish

  1. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes (if using), and spinach.
  2. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and mix well.
  3. Squeeze in lemon juice and stir to combine.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

  1. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
  2. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and skip the Parmesan.
  • Make It Extra Creamy: Add more heavy cream or a splash of milk.
  • Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
  • Vegetable Boost: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas for more nutrients.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or cream.

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