An Easy One Pot Chicken Orzo Recipe that is quick to make! This creamy orzo with chicken is rich and delicious while still being healthy! Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this dish combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and flavorful orzo in one pot. It’s a hassle-free meal that packs a punch of flavor and nutrition.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- One Pot Wonder: As the name suggests, everything cooks in one pot, which means less cleanup for you!
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, it’s a nutritious choice for your family.
- Creamy and Delicious: The addition of half and half and parmesan gives the dish a rich, creamy texture without being heavy.
- Versatile Meal: Customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare this delightful One Pot Chicken Orzo, you will need some essential kitchen tools. Gathering these items before you start will make the cooking process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large high-sided pan
- Small mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooking spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large high-sided pan: Allows for ample space to cook all ingredients evenly without spilling.
- Small mixing bowl: Ideal for seasoning the chicken before cooking to enhance its flavor.
Ingredients
An Easy One Pot Chicken Orzo Recipe that is quick to make! This creamy orzo with chicken is rich and delicious while still being healthy!
For the Chicken
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or tenders cubed into 1” pieces)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
For the Vegetables
- ½ cup diced yellow onion (about 1/2 a medium onion)
- 2 cups chopped fresh asparagus spears (cut into 1 inch pieces)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 garlic cloves)
For the Orzo Base
- 8 ounces dry orzo
- 2 ½ cups low sodium chicken broth
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme (can sub 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme)
For Creaminess
- ⅓ cup half and half (can sub milk)
- ⅓ cup freshly grated parmesan
For Garnish
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan for garnish
How to Make One Pot Chicken Orzo
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- In a small bowl, combine chicken chunks, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toss to coat.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- In a large high-sided pan over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the pan. Cook for 10-12 minutes until brown on all sides.
- Remove from the pan and set aside in a bowl.
Step 3: Sauté the Asparagus
- In the same pan (no need to clean it!), add the remaining tablespoon of oil.
- Add the asparagus and sauté for about 2 minutes until tender but still crisp.
- Remove from the pan and set aside with the cooked chicken.
Step 4: Sauté Onion and Toast Orzo
- Add diced onion to the pan and sauté until softened, roughly 3 minutes.
- Stir in orzo and minced garlic; cook until orzo starts to toast slightly for another 3 minutes.
Step 5: Simmer with Broth
- Pour in low sodium chicken broth, bring it to a simmer while stirring occasionally.
- Cover with a lid and cook for about 7 minutes or until most of the liquid has been absorbed; stir halfway through.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
- Stir in cooked chicken, asparagus, half-and-half, parmesan cheese, spinach, and thyme.
- Heat for one to two more minutes until everything is heated through and spinach wilts.
Step 7: Serve
Serve immediately garnished with chopped parsley and extra grated parmesan on top.
Enjoy your delicious One Pot Chicken Orzo!
How to Serve One Pot Chicken Orzo
One Pot Chicken Orzo is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative suggestions to elevate your meal.
Family Style
- Serve the orzo directly from the pot, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a casual and inviting atmosphere.
With a Fresh Salad
- Pair with a light salad, such as a simple arugula or mixed greens salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Accompanied by Crusty Bread
- Offer slices of crusty bread on the side. It’s perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce of the orzo.
Topped with Extra Parmesan
- Sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Enhance presentation and flavor by garnishing each serving with chopped parsley or basil.
As a Meal Prep Option
- Store leftovers in airtight containers for easy reheating during busy weeknights. It keeps well in the fridge for several days.
How to Perfect One Pot Chicken Orzo
To achieve the best results with One Pot Chicken Orzo, consider these helpful tips.
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor profile of your dish significantly.
Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes according to your preference for spice and flavor.
Opt for homemade broth: If possible, use homemade chicken broth for richer taste compared to store-bought options.
Cook pasta al dente: Be careful not to overcook the orzo; it should have a slight bite to it when ready.
Best Side Dishes for One Pot Chicken Orzo
Complement your One Pot Chicken Orzo with these delicious side dishes that add variety and balance to your meal.
Garlic Bread: A classic accompaniment that adds crunch and flavor, perfect for scooping up any leftover orzo sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers roasted until tender can provide color and nutrients.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with parmesan, croutons, and Caesar dressing makes for a hearty yet light side.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn enhances the meal’s summer vibe while providing a delightful texture contrast.
Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing appetizer option.
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a healthy green element that’s quick to prepare alongside your main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing One Pot Chicken Orzo, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.
- Overcooking the chicken – If you cook the chicken too long, it will become dry. Aim for a golden brown on all sides and remove it from the heat once fully cooked.
- Ignoring the broth temperature – Using cold broth can slow down cooking time. Microwaving your broth before adding it helps speed up the process.
- Skipping the sautéing step – Not toasting the orzo and garlic can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you sauté them until slightly golden for enhanced taste.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately – Improper measurements can throw off the balance of flavors. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
- Forgetting about seasoning – Seasonings enhance flavor; neglecting them can result in a dull dish. Taste as you go, and adjust seasonings accordingly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It lasts for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing One Pot Chicken Orzo
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
- Can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating One Pot Chicken Orzo
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop – Add a splash of broth or water to a pan over medium heat, stir occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making One Pot Chicken Orzo that can help clarify any doubts.
What is One Pot Chicken Orzo?
One Pot Chicken Orzo is a creamy dish that combines tender chicken pieces with orzo pasta, vegetables, and flavorful broth all cooked in one pot for convenience.
How long does it take to make One Pot Chicken Orzo?
The total time needed is about 45 minutes, which includes both preparation and cooking time.
Can I customize One Pot Chicken Orzo?
Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or peas or swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu for various flavors.
Is One Pot Chicken Orzo healthy?
Yes! This recipe is balanced with protein from chicken, fiber from vegetables, and whole grains from orzo, making it a nutritious option.
Final Thoughts
One Pot Chicken Orzo is not just quick and easy; it’s also rich and comforting. This versatile dish allows you to mix in various vegetables and proteins according to your preference. Give it a try—you’ll love how simple yet delicious this meal can be!
One Pot Chicken Orzo
One Pot Chicken Orzo is the ultimate weeknight meal that promises a delightful balance of flavors and textures in one pot. This creamy, comforting dish combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and orzo pasta, all simmered together for a hassle-free cooking experience. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings or meal prep. The rich creaminess from half-and-half and parmesan cheese makes it indulgent without being overly heavy. Customize this versatile recipe with your favorite veggies or spices to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy a nourishing meal that the whole family will love!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- ½ cup diced yellow onion
- 2 cups chopped fresh asparagus
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 8 ounces dry orzo
- 2 ½ cups low sodium chicken broth
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- ⅓ cup half-and-half
- ⅓ cup freshly grated parmesan
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat; cook the seasoned chicken until browned (10-12 minutes).
- Remove the chicken; sauté asparagus in the same pan for about 2 minutes.
- Add diced onion and toast orzo with minced garlic for about 3 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth, bring to a simmer; cover and cook for approximately 7 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in the cooked chicken, asparagus, half-and-half, parmesan, spinach, and thyme; heat until everything is warmed through.
- Serve immediately with parsley and extra parmesan on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
