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, special occasions, or meal prep, this dish combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and flavorful orzo in one pot. You’ll love how simple it is to create a comforting meal with minimal cleanup.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With only 20 minutes of prep time, you can have a nutritious meal ready in under an hour.
- One-Pot Wonder: Save time on cleanup with this recipe that requires just one pot, making it perfect for busy days.
- Flavor-Packed Dish: The blend of garlic, thyme, and parmesan creates a rich flavor profile that will delight your taste buds.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out veggies or use leftover ingredients to customize this dish to your liking.
- Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, this recipe is both satisfying and nutritious.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools can make cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential tools needed for this recipe:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large high-sided pan
- Small mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large high-sided pan: This allows for even cooking of the chicken and provides enough space for the orzo to absorb the broth without spilling.
- Knife: A good knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
- Cutting board: Protects your countertops while providing a stable surface for chopping ingredients.
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: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, combine chicken chunks, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toss to coat evenly.
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. Cook for 10-12 minutes until brown on all sides. Remove from the pan and set aside in a bowl.
Step 3: Sauté Asparagus
In the same pan (no need to clean it!), add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the asparagus and sauté for 2 minutes until tender but still crisp. Remove from the pan and set aside on the plate with the cooked chicken.
Step 4: Sauté Onion & Toast Orzo
Add diced onion to the pan. Sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Add orzo and minced garlic; cook until orzo starts to toast slightly (about another 3 minutes).
Step 5: Simmer with Broth
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir occasionally while scraping the bottom of the pan. Cover with a lid and cook for about 7 minutes until most of the liquid has been absorbed; stir halfway through.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Stir in cooked chicken, sautéed asparagus, half-and-half, parmesan cheese, spinach, and thyme. Heat everything together for one to two minutes until warmed through and spinach is wilted.
Step 7: Serve
Serve immediately garnished with chopped parsley and extra grated parmesan.
With these easy steps, you’ll have a delicious One Pot Chicken Orzo ready in no time! Enjoy every creamy bite!
How to Serve One Pot Chicken Orzo
Serving One Pot Chicken Orzo is as delightful as making it! This creamy dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes, enhancing its flavor and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
Fresh Herbs
- Chopped parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
- Basil leaves: Add whole basil leaves for an aromatic touch that complements the dish.
Citrus Zest
- Lemon zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest will brighten the flavors of the orzo and chicken.
- Lime wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side for an extra zing that guests can squeeze over their servings.
Additional Cheese
- Feta cheese: Crumble feta cheese over the top for a tangy contrast to the creamy orzo.
- Extra Parmesan: Offer grated Parmesan at the table so everyone can add more if they desire.
Green Salad
- Simple green salad: A crisp green salad with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the One Pot Chicken Orzo.
- Caesar salad: The crunch and flavor from Caesar salad can perfectly accompany this dish.
How to Perfect One Pot Chicken Orzo
To truly master your One Pot Chicken Orzo, consider these tips that will enhance both flavor and texture.
- Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh herbs and vegetables to elevate the overall taste of your dish.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving; everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to add more salt or pepper as needed.
- Don’t overcook the orzo: Keep an eye on the orzo while cooking to ensure it remains al dente, providing a pleasant bite.
- Experiment with proteins: Feel free to substitute chicken with shrimp or turkey for a different twist on this recipe.
- Add more veggies: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or peas for added nutrition and color.
- Garnish generously: Don’t skimp on garnishes like herbs or cheese—they make your dish visually appealing and delicious!
Best Side Dishes for One Pot Chicken Orzo
Pairing side dishes with your One Pot Chicken Orzo can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Garlic Bread: A classic choice that complements any pasta dish; perfect for soaking up extra sauce!
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and nutrition; try zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli offers a healthy crunch that pairs well with creamy dishes like this one.
- Caprese Salad: A refreshing mix of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil adds a lovely contrast in flavors.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers and feta provides a nutty flavor profile that balances out the meal.
- Coleslaw: A tangy slaw brings crunch and acidity, enhancing the rich flavors of the chicken orzo.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making One Pot Chicken Orzo, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Overcooking the Chicken: This can lead to dry, tough meat. Cook the chicken just until browned and remove it from the pan; it will finish cooking later with the orzo.
- Skipping the Sauté Step: Not sautéing the onion and garlic can result in a lack of flavor. These ingredients release essential aromas that enhance the dish.
- Not Toasting the Orzo: Failing to toast the orzo can make it bland. Toasting adds a nutty flavor that elevates this dish remarkably.
- Ignoring Broth Temperature: Adding cold broth slows down cooking time. Microwave your broth before adding it to speed things up and ensure even cooking.
- Forgetting to Stir Occasionally: If you neglect stirring, orzo may stick to the bottom of the pan. Stirring helps prevent burning and ensures even absorption of flavors.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
- It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing One Pot Chicken Orzo
- Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating One Pot Chicken Orzo
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat gently over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to avoid sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about One Pot Chicken Orzo, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.
Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, you can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini or couscous. Cooking times may vary slightly.
How do I make One Pot Chicken Orzo healthier?
Opt for whole grain orzo and add more vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrients.
What is the best way to serve One Pot Chicken Orzo?
Serve it warm as a main course. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra parmesan for a delightful touch.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How long does it take to prepare One Pot Chicken Orzo?
The total time is about 45 minutes, including 20 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking time.
Final Thoughts
One Pot Chicken Orzo is not only easy to prepare but also rich in flavor. This dish is versatile enough to allow for customization; feel free to swap out vegetables or proteins based on your preferences. Enjoy this comforting meal any night of the week!
One Pot Chicken Orzo
Indulge in the comforting flavors of One Pot Chicken Orzo, a creamy and satisfying dish perfect for any weeknight dinner. This quick recipe combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and flavorful orzo all cooked in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. With its rich taste enhanced by garlic, thyme, and parmesan, this meal is not only delicious but also nutritious. In just under an hour, you can serve up a wholesome dish that pleases the whole family. Plus, it’s versatile enough to use leftover ingredients or substitute proteins to suit your preferences. Enjoy this delightful dish that promises warmth and satisfaction with every bite!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces dry orzo
- 2 ½ cups low sodium chicken broth
- ⅓ cup half-and-half
- ½ cup diced yellow onion
- 2 cups chopped asparagus
- Fresh spinach
- Garlic powder
- Thyme
- Salt
- Pepper
- Red pepper flakes
- Olive oil
Instructions
- Season the chicken with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- In a large pan over medium-high heat, cook the chicken in olive oil until browned; set aside.
- Sauté asparagus in the same pan for about 2 minutes; remove from heat.
- Add onion to the pan; sauté until softened. Stir in orzo and minced garlic until slightly toasted.
- Pour in chicken broth; bring to a simmer and cook covered for about 7 minutes.
- Stir in chicken, asparagus, half-and-half, parmesan cheese, spinach, and thyme until heated through.
- Serve garnished with parsley and additional parmesan.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
