One Pot Chicken Orzo Recipe

There’s something magical about a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and ease all in one pot. This One-Pot Chicken Orzo Recipe is the ultimate weeknight dinner solution. Tender chicken, perfectly cooked orzo, and a creamy, flavorful sauce come together in just 30 minutes, making this dish as satisfying as it is simple.

I first discovered this recipe when I was looking for a quick yet hearty meal after a long day. It instantly became a family favorite, with everyone rushing back for seconds. If you’re ready to transform dinnertime with minimal cleanup, let’s dive into what makes this dish so special.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Chicken Orzo

Get ready to fall in love with a recipe that delivers big flavor without the big effort. This One-Pot Chicken Orzo has quickly become a go-to for busy families and anyone looking for a cozy meal.

It’s quick and easy. You’ll have dinner on the table in just 30 minutes, with no need to juggle multiple pots and pans. Everything cooks in one pot, saving time and energy.

Packed with flavor. The combination of tender chicken, creamy orzo, and savory spices ensures every bite is bursting with taste.

Perfect for all occasions. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, hosting a casual dinner, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe adapts beautifully.

Minimal cleanup. With just one pot to wash, you’ll spend more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing dishes.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what makes this recipe shine:

Chicken. I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their rich flavor and tender texture. If you prefer leaner meat, chicken breasts work too, but be careful not to overcook them.

Orzo. This small, rice-shaped pasta is the star of the dish. It cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors of the broth beautifully, creating a creamy, risotto-like consistency.

Chicken broth. Use a high-quality chicken broth as the base for this recipe. It infuses the orzo with savory depth and keeps the dish moist.

Vegetables. Sautéed onions and garlic provide a flavor-packed foundation. You can also add diced carrots, spinach, or peas for extra nutrition and color.

Heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. These ingredients give the dish its luscious, creamy texture. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or Greek yogurt, but the creaminess may be slightly less indulgent.

Seasonings. A mix of dried thyme, paprika, and fresh parsley takes the flavor profile to the next level. Adjust the seasoning to your taste preference!

How to Make This One-Pot Chicken Orzo

Creating this delicious dish is easier than you think! Follow these steps for perfect results every time:

Step 1: Prepare your chicken.
Cut your chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and season them with salt, pepper, and a touch of paprika. Heat a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the aromatics.
In the same pan, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits left by the chicken – this adds extra flavor.

Step 3: Cook the orzo.
Add the uncooked orzo to the pan, stirring it with the onions and garlic for about a minute. This step helps to lightly toast the pasta, enhancing its flavor.

Step 4: Simmer everything together.
Pour in the chicken broth and stir well. Return the chicken to the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 5: Finish with cream and cheese.
Stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, letting the mixture simmer for another 2-3 minutes until thickened. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Garnish and serve.
Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot. Pair it with a crisp side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Storage Options

This One-Pot Chicken Orzo stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: While orzo may slightly soften upon thawing, you can freeze this dish for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm leftovers on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to revive the creamy texture.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

• Swap the protein. Use shrimp, diced turkey, or even tofu for a unique twist.
• Add veggies. Stir in spinach, kale, or mushrooms for added nutrients and texture.
• Go gluten-free. Substitute the orzo with gluten-free pasta or rice.
• Make it spicy. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
• Dairy-free option. Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of heavy cream and Parmesan.

Feel free to experiment with different combinations – the possibilities are endless!

There you have it: a cozy, flavorful dinner ready in just one pot. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want a quick, fuss-free meal, this One-Pot Chicken Orzo will never disappoint. Let me know how it turns out – I can’t wait to hear about your own delicious variations!

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