One Pot Chicken Orzo
Get ready to indulge in the comforting flavors of One Pot Chicken Orzo. This dish is a perfect balance of tender chicken, hearty orzo pasta, and a flavorful broth that will warm your soul. As an avid home chef, creating this one-pot wonder never fails to bring a smile to my face. From the first sauté to the final sprinkle of fresh herbs, the entire process is a labor of love. I am thrilled to share this recipe with you, so let’s dive in and savor every bite of this delicious One Pot Chicken Orzo together.
Key Takeaways:
- The savory combination of chicken and orzo makes this dish a comforting and satisfying meal.
- Save time with this one-pot recipe that minimizes cleanup and maximizes flavor.
- Enjoy the rich and savory taste of this dish, perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.
- For best results, season the chicken generously and stir the orzo occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Why You’ll Adore This One Pot Chicken Orzo
Convenience at Its Finest: One Pot Chicken Orzo simplifies dinner preparation without compromising on taste, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.
Heartwarming and Flavorful: The blend of tender chicken, savory orzo, and aromatic herbs creates a dish that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.
Versatile and Family-Friendly: Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that can easily be customized with your favorite ingredients.
Memorable Meals Made Simple: With just one pot and a handful of ingredients, you can create a memorable meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Essential Ingredients for One Pot Chicken Orzo
Chicken Thighs: Succulent chicken thighs add rich flavor and juiciness to the One Pot Chicken Orzo, infusing the dish with a savory essence.
Orzo Pasta: Orzo pasta is the perfect choice for this recipe, providing a comforting texture and seamlessly absorbing the delicious flavors of the dish.
Chicken Broth: The chicken broth serves as the flavorful base of the dish, imparting depth and richness to every spoonful of One Pot Chicken Orzo.
How to Make One Pot Chicken Orzo
Searing the Chicken
Begin by searing the chicken thighs in a hot pan until they develop a golden brown crust, adding a depth of flavor to the dish.
Cooking the Orzo
Add the orzo to the pan, allowing it to soak up the savory juices and chicken broth, creating a luscious and satisfying meal.
Finishing Touches
Sprinkle the dish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of brightness, elevating the flavors of the One Pot Chicken Orzo.
Ingredients
One Pot Chicken Orzo Instructions
Pro Tips for the Best One Pot Chicken Orzo
Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the seasonings, as bold flavors will take this dish to the next level.
Stir Occasionally: To prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan, give it a gentle stir every now and then during cooking.
Fresh Herbs FTW: Adding a handful of fresh herbs just before serving will brighten up the dish and add a pop of color.
You Must Know
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to ensure juicy and flavorful meat.
- Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences, whether you prefer a bit more heat or a touch of sweetness.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the dish for an extra boost of nutrition and flavor.
- This dish reheats well, making it a perfect option for meal prep or leftovers.
How to Store One Pot Chicken Orzo
To store any leftover One Pot Chicken Orzo, simply transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Customizing Your One Pot Chicken Orzo
Feel free to customize your One Pot Chicken Orzo by swapping out the chicken thighs for chicken breast or adding in your favorite vegetables for a personalized touch. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility, so don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen!
What to Serve with One Pot Chicken Orzo
Complement the flavors of One Pot Chicken Orzo with a crisp green salad, crusty garlic bread, and a glass of chilled white wine for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
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!
Timing
Recipe Details
Ingredients
- 01 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or tenders cubed into 1” pieces)
- 02 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 03 ¼ teaspoon salt
- 04 ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 05 ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 06 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 07 ½ cup diced yellow onion (about 1/2 a medium onion)
- 08 2 cups chopped fresh asparagus spears (cut into 1 inch pieces)
- 09 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 garlic cloves)
- 10 8 ounces dry orzo
- 11 2 ½ cups low sodium chicken broth
- 12 2 sprigs fresh thyme (can sub 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 13 ⅓ cup half and half (can sub milk)
- 14 ⅓ cup freshly grated parmesan
- 15 2 cups fresh spinach
- 16 chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan (for garnish)
Instructions
In a small bowl, combine chicken chunks, garlic powder, salt, pepper and red pepper flakes, toss to coat.
In a large high sided pan over medium high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and add the chicken. Cook for 10-12 minutes, until brown on all sides. Remove from the pan and set aside in a bowl.
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 to the plate with the cooked chicken.
Add the onion to the pan and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the orzo and garlic and cook until the orzo starts to toast slightly, another 3 minutes.
Add in the broth and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally and scraping the bottom of the pan. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for 7 minutes, or until most of the liquid has been absorbed, stirring halfway.
Stir in the cooked chicken, asparagus, half and half, parmesan, spinach and thyme. Heat for one to two minutes more until heated through and spinach is wilted.
Serve immediately garnished with chopped parsley and extra grated parmesan.
FILED UNDER:
NUTRITION FACTS (PER SERVING)
Nutrition information is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate. In cases where multiple ingredient alternatives are given, the first listed is calculated for nutrition. Garnishes and optional ingredients are not included.
Must-Know Tips
Professional Secrets
Frequently Asked Questions About One Pot Chicken Orzo
Can I make One Pot Chicken Orzo ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare One Pot Chicken Orzo ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for quick and easy meals throughout the week.
How long does One Pot Chicken Orzo last in the fridge?
One Pot Chicken Orzo can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, ensuring that you have delicious leftovers to enjoy whenever hunger strikes.
What’s the best way to reheat One Pot Chicken Orzo?
To reheat One Pot Chicken Orzo, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water to the dish, cover with a lid, and gently warm it on the stovetop until heated through.
Can I use a different type of pasta in place of orzo?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta in this recipe, such as penne, farfalle, or even spaghetti, to create a unique twist on this classic dish.
How can I add more vegetables to One Pot Chicken Orzo?
Simply chop up your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach, and add them to the pot along with the orzo to create a wholesome and nutritious meal.
Is One Pot Chicken Orzo a kid-friendly recipe?
Absolutely! Kids will love the comforting flavors of One Pot Chicken Orzo, making it a perfect family-friendly meal that can be enjoyed by all ages.
Can I freeze leftover One Pot Chicken Orzo?
While it’s best to enjoy One Pot Chicken Orzo fresh, you can freeze any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Simply thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Final Thoughts
As you embark on your culinary journey with One Pot Chicken Orzo, remember that the joy of cooking lies in creating meals that not only nourish the body but also warm the soul. I hope this recipe brings you as much delight as it has brought me over the years. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your stove, and let the aroma of this delicious One Pot Chicken Orzo fill your kitchen with warmth and love. Cheers to good food, good company, and good times ahead!
