One Pot Chicken Orzo Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting smell of a one-pot meal simmering away on a busy weeknight. This One Pot Chicken Orzo is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s both satisfying and incredibly easy to make. Tender chicken, al dente orzo, and a medley of savory flavors all come together in a single pan—less mess, more deliciousness!

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe during a particularly hectic week when I needed a quick dinner that wouldn’t sacrifice flavor. It’s become a staple in our household ever since, and I’m excited to share it with you. Let’s dive into why this dish will become your new go-to favorite!

Why You'll Love This One Pot Chicken Orzo

Get ready to embrace your new favorite one-pan wonder. This One Pot Chicken Orzo recipe has so much going for it—you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it.

First, this recipe is incredibly convenient. Everything cooks in a single pot, which means fewer dishes to wash and more time to spend with your family or relaxing after dinner.

The flavors are off the charts! Juicy chicken is paired with creamy orzo and a flavorful combination of garlic, onions, and Parmesan cheese. The result is a dish that tastes indulgent but comes together in under 30 minutes.

It’s also endlessly customizable. Whether you want to add extra veggies, swap out the protein, or use up whatever’s in your pantry, this recipe adapts beautifully to your needs.

Finally, this dish is perfect for busy nights or meal prep. It reheats like a dream, making it a fantastic option for leftovers or make-ahead lunches.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this One Pot Chicken Orzo lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient works in harmony to create a meal that’s as flavorful as it is easy to prepare.

The chicken is the star of the show. I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their tenderness and rich flavor. However, chicken breasts work well too if you prefer a leaner option.

Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta that absorbs the creamy broth beautifully while maintaining a pleasant bite. You can find it in the pasta aisle of most grocery stores.

The broth forms the base of the dish. Use a good-quality chicken broth for maximum flavor. If you’re looking for a vegetarian twist, swap it out for vegetable broth.

Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, salty richness to the dish. Grate it fresh for the best flavor and texture—it melts right into the orzo for a creamy finish.

A splash of lemon juice at the end brightens up the dish and balances the richness. Don’t skip this step—it takes the flavors to the next level!

You’ll also need a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven for cooking everything together. This ensures even cooking and enough room to stir without spilling.

How To Make This One Pot Chicken Orzo

Creating this delicious One Pot Chicken Orzo is as easy as it gets. Let’s walk through the steps to ensure your dish comes out perfectly every time.

Start by heating a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and let it warm up. Season your chicken with salt and pepper, then sear it in the hot pan until golden brown on both sides. This step locks in flavor, so don’t rush it!

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, add diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Next, stir in your orzo and let it toast for a minute. This adds a subtle nuttiness to the pasta. Then, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Return the chicken to the pan and let everything cook together until the orzo is tender and creamy.

Finally, stir in the Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lemon juice. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

This entire process takes about 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights when time is short but a delicious dinner is a must.

Storage Options

Leftovers of this One Pot Chicken Orzo are a gift that keeps on giving. Store any remaining portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the orzo, as it tends to thicken as it sits. Heat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

If you’d like to freeze this dish, cool it completely and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of this recipe makes it a winner for any household. Here are some easy ways to switch it up and make it your own:

• Add a handful of baby spinach or kale during the final few minutes of cooking for a boost of greens.
• Swap the chicken for shrimp or turkey if you’re looking for a protein twist.
• Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly version (and omit the chicken entirely).
• Try stirring in a dollop of pesto or sun-dried tomato paste for an extra layer of flavor.
• Experiment with cheeses! Pecorino Romano or Gruyere can add a different but equally delicious touch.

No matter how you tweak it, this recipe is forgiving and fun to customize. Let your creativity shine and enjoy the delicious results!

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