One Pot Chicken Orzo

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 busy weeknights or casual family dinners, this dish combines the heartiness of chicken with the delightful texture of orzo, making it a memorable meal for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 45 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy schedules.
• One Pot Wonder: Enjoy the convenience of cooking everything in one pot, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor.
• Rich and Creamy: The addition of half and half gives this dish a luxurious creaminess without being overly heavy.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins, tailoring the dish to your taste.
• Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, this recipe is a wholesome choice for any meal.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your One Pot Chicken Orzo effectively, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help streamline the cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large high-sided pan
• Small bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large high-sided pan: This allows enough space to cook all ingredients together while preventing spills.
• Small bowl: Perfect for mixing spices and coating the chicken evenly before cooking.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Use this to stir ingredients gently without scratching your cookware.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients safely.

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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 Mixture

• 8 ounces dry orzo
• 2 ½ cups low sodium chicken broth
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme (can sub 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme)

For the Creaminess

• ⅓ cup half and half (can sub milk)
• ⅓ cup freshly grated parmesan

For Garnishing

• 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 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 about 10-12 minutes until browned 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 asparagus and sauté for about 2 minutes until tender but still crisp. Remove from pan and set aside with cooked chicken.

Step 4: Cook Onion and Orzo

Add diced onion to the pan. Sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Then add orzo and minced garlic; cook for another 3 minutes until orzo starts to toast slightly.

Step 5: Simmer with Broth

Pour in low sodium chicken broth. Bring to a simmer while stirring occasionally. Cover with a lid and cook for about 7 minutes, until most liquid has been absorbed; stir halfway through cooking.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Stir in cooked chicken, asparagus, half and half, parmesan cheese, fresh spinach, and thyme. Heat for an additional one to two minutes until everything is heated through and spinach has wilted.

Step 7: Serve

Plate immediately garnished with chopped parsley and extra grated parmesan as desired. 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 enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for added color and flavor.
• Basil leaves: Fresh basil gives a fragrant touch that complements the dish perfectly.

Pair with a Salad

• Caesar salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine and creamy dressing balances the richness of the orzo.
• Greek salad: The freshness of cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese adds a refreshing contrast.

Serve with Bread

• Garlic bread: Crunchy garlic bread provides a delightful side to scoop up the creamy orzo.
• Crusty baguette: A slice of warm baguette is perfect for dipping into the sauce.

How to Perfect One Pot Chicken Orzo

To achieve the best results with your One Pot Chicken Orzo, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs elevate the taste significantly compared to dried or frozen options.
• Toast the orzo: Sautéing the orzo before adding liquids enhances its nutty flavor and improves texture.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Taste as you cook and adjust salt, pepper, or spices for a personalized flavor profile.
• Let it rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for One Pot Chicken Orzo

Complement your One Pot Chicken Orzo with these delicious side dishes that enhance your meal’s appeal.

1. Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a healthy crunch and pairs well with the creamy orzo.
2. Roasted vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted veggies adds vibrant colors and earthy flavors.
3. Mixed greens salad: A simple salad dressed lightly with olive oil and lemon brightens up your plate.
4. Grilled zucchini: Grilled zucchini slices provide a smoky flavor that contrasts nicely with the dish’s creaminess.
5. Quinoa pilaf: Fluffy quinoa pilaf adds an extra protein boost while maintaining lightness on the palate.
6. Baked sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes offer sweetness that balances out savory components in the orzo.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your One Pot Chicken Orzo, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• Skipping seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season your chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper before cooking.
• Overcooking the orzo: Cooking the orzo for too long can make it mushy. Follow the cooking time closely and check for al dente texture.
• Neglecting vegetable sizes: Cutting asparagus too large or unevenly can result in uneven cooking. Aim for uniform 1-inch pieces to ensure they cook through evenly.
• Not using enough broth: Insufficient liquid can lead to dry orzo. Make sure to use the full amount of low-sodium chicken broth specified in the recipe.
• Rushing the spinach: Adding spinach too early can cause it to wilt excessively. Stir it in towards the end of cooking for optimal freshness and color.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store your One Pot Chicken Orzo in an airtight container.
• item It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing One Pot Chicken Orzo

• item Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• item Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating One Pot Chicken Orzo

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place orzo in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to retain moisture while reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about One Pot Chicken Orzo that might help clarify any uncertainties.

Can I use different vegetables in One Pot Chicken Orzo?

Yes! Feel free to substitute other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or peas according to your preference.

How do I make One Pot Chicken Orzo creamier?

To enhance creaminess, you can increase the amount of half-and-half or add more grated Parmesan cheese when mixing in at the end.

Is One Pot Chicken Orzo healthy?

Absolutely! This recipe includes lean chicken and plenty of veggies, making it a nutritious option for dinner.

Can I prepare One Pot Chicken Orzo ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep ingredients ahead of time and cook it when you’re ready. Just store prepped items separately until you’re ready to cook.

What is the best way to serve One Pot Chicken Orzo?

Serve hot with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan sprinkled on top for added flavor and presentation!

Final Thoughts

One Pot Chicken Orzo is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different vegetables or proteins based on what you have on hand. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, making dinner quick without sacrificing flavor. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its creamy richness today!