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 weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish combines wholesome ingredients into a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 45 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- Flavorful & Rich: The combination of chicken, asparagus, and parmesan creates a delightful creamy texture that’s bursting with flavor.
- One-Pot Convenience: With everything cooked in one pot, cleanup is a breeze, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal.
- Health-Conscious Choice: Packed with protein and veggies, this dish is a nutritious option without sacrificing taste.
- Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins for a personal touch.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delicious One Pot Chicken Orzo, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large high-sided pan
- Small bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large high-sided pan: Ideal for sautéing and simmering all ingredients together in one pot.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware; helps combine flavors effectively.
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!
Protein
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or tenders cubed into 1” pieces)
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
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)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Pasta and Dairy
- 8 ounces dry orzo
- 2 ½ cups low sodium chicken broth
- ⅓ cup half and half (can sub milk)
- ⅓ cup freshly grated parmesan
Garnish
- 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 and cook for 10-12 minutes until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken 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 asparagus and sauté for about 2 minutes until tender but still crisp. Remove from the pan and set aside with the cooked chicken.
Step 4: Cook Onion & Orzo
Add diced onion to the pan. Sauté until softened for about 3 minutes. Then add orzo and minced garlic; cook until the orzo starts to toast slightly, about another 3 minutes.
Step 5: Simmer with Broth
Pour in the broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir occasionally while scraping the bottom of the pan. Cover with a lid and cook for around 7 minutes until most liquid has been absorbed; stir halfway through cooking.
Step 6: Combine All Ingredients
Stir in the cooked chicken, sautéed asparagus, half and half, parmesan cheese, spinach, and thyme. Heat for an additional one to two minutes until heated through and spinach is wilted.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!
Serve immediately garnished with chopped parsley and extra grated parmesan cheese. 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. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.
With Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for added color and flavor.
- Basil or Thyme: Add fresh basil or thyme leaves for a fragrant touch.
Paired with a Salad
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs well, adding crunch and creaminess.
- Greek Salad: A refreshing Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta complements the dish beautifully.
Accompanied by Bread
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Crusty Baguette: A sliced baguette provides a perfect side for dipping.
Topped with Extra Cheese
- Feta Crumbles: For a tangy twist, sprinkle feta cheese on top just before serving.
- More Parmesan: Add more freshly grated Parmesan for an extra cheesy delight.
As a Meal Prep Option
- Store in Containers: Portion cooked One Pot Chicken Orzo into meal prep containers for quick lunches throughout the week.
- Freeze Leftovers: This dish freezes well; store in airtight containers for future dinners.
How to Perfect One Pot Chicken Orzo
To ensure your One Pot Chicken Orzo turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor and nutrition.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go, adjusting seasoning for personal preference.
- Control Heat Levels: Cook over medium-high heat to achieve the perfect texture without burning.
- Add Liquid Gradually: If the orzo absorbs too much liquid, add more broth gradually to avoid dryness.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking; this helps flavors meld together.
- Experiment with Proteins: Try substituting chicken with shrimp or tofu for different variations.
Best Side Dishes for One Pot Chicken Orzo
Pairing sides with your One Pot Chicken Orzo can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables seasoned with garlic make a nutritious complement.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and fiber, balancing the richness of the orzo.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast.
- Quinoa Salad: Quinoa mixed with veggies provides a protein-packed side that is light yet filling.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can offer crunch and acidity that balances the creamy orzo well.
- Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini lightly sautéed brings a healthy twist and additional veggies to your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making One Pot Chicken Orzo can be a breeze, but certain mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can leave your dish bland. Always coat the chicken with spices before cooking for maximum flavor.
- Not browning the chicken: If you don’t brown the chicken, it may not develop that rich flavor. Make sure to cook it until golden on all sides for the best taste.
- Overcooking the orzo: Cooking orzo too long can make it mushy. Keep an eye on it and check for doneness as per package instructions.
- Ignoring the liquid ratios: Using too much or too little broth can affect the consistency of your dish. Follow the recipe closely for the right balance of liquid.
- Not letting it rest before serving: Serving immediately after cooking can make the dish watery. Allowing it to sit for a few minutes helps thicken the sauce.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing One Pot Chicken Orzo
- Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating One Pot Chicken Orzo
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, add a splash of broth, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, add a little broth, cover, and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
- Stovetop: Add a bit of broth to a pan over medium heat, stir in orzo, and cook until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making One Pot Chicken Orzo:
Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes! While orzo is great for this recipe, you can substitute with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or tiny shells.
How can I customize my One Pot Chicken Orzo?
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra nutrition and flavor. You can also switch up herbs according to your preference.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and is perfect for meal prepping lunches or dinners throughout the week.
What should I serve with One Pot Chicken Orzo?
This creamy dish pairs nicely with a fresh green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
The One Pot Chicken Orzo is not just delicious; it’s also versatile enough for various occasions. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs! Give it a try today!
Recipes
One Pot Chicken Orzo
Indulge in the comforting flavors of our One Pot Chicken Orzo, a creamy and delicious dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh asparagus, and rich parmesan cheese. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, taking just 45 minutes from prep to table. With everything cooked in one pot, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to savor every bite without the hassle. Packed with protein and vegetables, this meal is not only satisfying but also health-conscious. Customize it with your favorite ingredients for a personal twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed)
- ½ cup diced yellow onion
- 2 cups chopped fresh asparagus
- 8 ounces dry orzo pasta
- 2 ½ cups low sodium chicken broth
- ⅓ cup half and half
- ⅓ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh spinach
Instructions
- In a small bowl, season chicken with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Cook seasoned chicken for 10-12 minutes until browned; remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté asparagus for about 2 minutes until tender yet crisp; set aside with chicken.
- Add onion to the pan; cook until softened (about 3 minutes). Stir in orzo and garlic; toast for another 3 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 7 minutes until liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Stir in chicken, asparagus, half and half, parmesan cheese, and spinach; heat through for an additional minute.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 385
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
