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 a cozy family dinner, this dish combines tender chicken, flavorful orzo, and fresh vegetables all in one pot. The convenience of cooking everything together saves time on cleanup and makes it an ideal choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This One Pot Chicken Orzo comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight meals.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, thyme, and parmesan creates a creamy and savory dish that delights the taste buds.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean chicken and fresh vegetables, this recipe offers a nutritious meal option without sacrificing flavor.
• Versatile Dish: You can easily swap out veggies or add your favorite herbs to customize this dish to your liking.
• Minimal Cleanup: With everything cooked in one pot, you can enjoy your meal without worrying about a pile of dishes.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your One Pot Chicken Orzo, gather the essential tools and equipment to streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large high-sided pan
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large high-sided pan: This allows for even cooking of the chicken and orzo while providing enough space to stir without spills.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures precise cuts for your vegetables, making prep faster and safer.

Ingredients

To prepare this One Pot Chicken Orzo recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• 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)
• 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)
• 8 ounces dry orzo
• 2 ½ cups low sodium chicken broth
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme (can sub 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme)
• ⅓ cup half and half (can sub milk)
• ⅓ cup freshly grated parmesan
• 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 the chicken chunks with garlic powder, salt, black 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 to the pan. Cook for about 10–12 minutes until brown on all sides. Remove from the pan and set aside in a bowl.

Step 3: Sauté the Asparagus

In the same pan (no need to clean it!), add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped asparagus and sauté for about 2 minutes until they are tender but still crisp. Remove from the pan and set aside on the plate with the cooked chicken.

Step 4: Cook the Onions and Orzo

Add diced onion to the pan. Sauté until softened, which takes about 3 minutes. Next, add the dry orzo along with minced garlic. Cook until the orzo begins to toast slightly, approximately another 3 minutes.

Step 5: Add Broth

Pour in low sodium chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir occasionally while scraping down any bits from the bottom of the pan. Cover with a lid and cook for around seven minutes or until most liquid has been absorbed; remember to stir halfway through.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Stir in cooked chicken, sautéed asparagus, half-and-half, grated parmesan cheese, fresh spinach, and thyme. Heat everything through for one to two more minutes until warmed up and spinach is wilted.

Step 7: Serve

Serve immediately garnished with chopped parsley and additional grated parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy your delicious One Pot Chicken Orzo!

How to Serve One Pot Chicken Orzo

One Pot Chicken Orzo is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a family meal, consider these serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
• A sprinkle of thyme provides an aromatic touch that complements the flavors.

Pair with a Light Salad

• A simple green salad dressed with olive oil and lemon enhances the meal’s lightness.
• Consider adding cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for extra crunch.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy orzo sauce.
• Garlic bread can also add an extra layer of flavor.

Include a Cheese Platter

• A selection of cheeses, such as feta or goat cheese, can enhance the meal.
• Pair with olives and nuts for a Mediterranean twist.

Offer Lemon Wedges on the Side

• Fresh lemon wedges can brighten the dish and add acidity.
• Squeeze over the orzo just before serving for an extra zing.

How to Perfect One Pot Chicken Orzo

To ensure your One Pot Chicken Orzo turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Season generously: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper. Seasoning enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Cook chicken thoroughly: Ensure chicken pieces are cooked until golden brown for added flavor. This will also improve texture.
• Toast the orzo: Lightly toasting orzo in oil brings out its nutty flavor. Stir often to avoid burning.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will elevate your dish, making it more vibrant and flavorful.
• Adjust liquid as needed: Depending on your preferred consistency, you can add more broth if you like a soupier dish.
• 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

Pairing side dishes with One Pot Chicken Orzo can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli
   Roasting broccoli until it’s crispy adds texture and complements the creaminess of the orzo.

2. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing side.

3. Grilled Zucchini
   Simple grilled zucchini slices offer a smoky flavor that pairs well with chicken orzo.

4. Herb Quinoa
   Fluffy quinoa seasoned with fresh herbs provides a protein-rich side that’s also gluten-free.

5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with savory dishes like chicken orzo, plus they are nutritious!

6. Cucumber Yogurt Salad
   Cool cucumber mixed with yogurt offers a refreshing contrast to the warm orzo dish.

7. Stuffed Bell Peppers
   Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice and vegetables make for an eye-catching side option that’s hearty too.

8. Mixed Green Salad
   A mix of greens tossed in a light vinaigrette is simple yet effective at balancing flavors on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking One Pot Chicken Orzo can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking the Chicken – Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Aim for a golden brown on all sides and remove it from the pan as soon as it’s cooked through.
• Ignoring the Broth Temperature – Adding cold broth can slow down cooking time. Warm your broth in the microwave before adding it to the pan to ensure a faster simmer.
• Not Toasting the Orzo – Skipping the toasting step means missing out on flavor. Always toast orzo for a few minutes before adding liquid to enhance its nuttiness.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments – Tastes vary, so don’t hesitate to adjust salt and spices according to your preference. Taste your dish at various stages to ensure it’s well-seasoned.
• Using Too Much Liquid – Adding more broth than recommended can lead to soupy orzo. Stick to the suggested amount for a creamy consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing One Pot Chicken Orzo

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers.
• Can be stored for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating One Pot Chicken Orzo

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot. Cover with a microwave-safe lid.
• Stovetop – Add a splash of water or broth in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making One Pot Chicken Orzo.

Can I use whole wheat orzo instead of regular orzo?

Yes, you can use whole wheat orzo! Just note that it may require slightly longer cooking time.

What can I substitute if I don’t have fresh thyme?

Dried thyme works well as a substitute; use about 1/4 teaspoon for every sprig of fresh thyme.

How do I add more vegetables to my One Pot Chicken Orzo?

Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or zucchini. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it ahead and store it properly in the fridge or freezer. Simply reheat when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

One Pot Chicken Orzo is not only simple but also adaptable. You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings based on your taste preferences. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion!