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. Ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this dish combines tender chicken and vibrant vegetables in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze. The flavors meld perfectly, creating a comforting meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking, you can have a hearty meal ready in under an hour.
• One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup! Everything cooks in one pot for maximum flavor and convenience.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of garlic, thyme, and fresh vegetables adds depth to the dish, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
• Versatile Meal: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices to suit your taste.
• Healthy Choice: Loaded with protein from the chicken and nutrients from spinach and asparagus, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather your tools. Having everything ready will help streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large high-sided pan
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large high-sided pan: This allows for even cooking of all ingredients while reducing splatter.
• Cutting board: A stable surface is crucial for chopping vegetables safely and efficiently.

Ingredients

To prepare your One Pot Chicken Orzo, you’ll need the following ingredients:

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 Dish

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

For Creaminess

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

For Garnish

• 2 cups fresh spinach
• Chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan for garnish

How to Make One Pot Chicken Orzo

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a small bowl, combine the chicken chunks with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toss to coat evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. In a large high-sided pan over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Add the seasoned chicken to the pan. Cook for about 10-12 minutes until browned on all sides.
3. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside in a bowl.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

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

Step 4: Toast Orzo

1. Add diced onion to the pan and sauté until softened for about 3 minutes.
2. Stir in dry orzo along with minced garlic; cook until orzo starts to toast slightly—around another 3 minutes.

Step 5: Simmer

1. Pour in low sodium chicken broth; bring to a simmer while stirring occasionally.
2. Cover with a lid; cook for approximately 7 minutes or until most liquid has been absorbed—stir halfway through.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

1. Stir in cooked chicken, sautéed asparagus, half and half, parmesan cheese, spinach, and thyme.
2. Heat for another minute or two until heated through; ensure spinach is wilted.

Step 7: Serve

1. Serve immediately garnished with chopped parsley and extra grated parmesan on top.

This One Pot Chicken Orzo recipe serves up to four people with each serving containing a delightful balance of flavors and nutrition! Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve One Pot Chicken Orzo

One Pot Chicken Orzo is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it an excellent choice for different occasions. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves: Add whole basil leaves for an aromatic touch that complements the chicken and orzo.

Paired with a Side Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the orzo.
• Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing provide a delicious contrast to the creamy orzo.

Accompanied by Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread for a comforting touch that pairs well with the dish.
• Focaccia: This soft, herb-infused bread makes for a delightful addition to soak up any extra sauce.

How to Perfect One Pot Chicken Orzo

To ensure your One Pot Chicken Orzo turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Quality Chicken: Fresh, high-quality chicken will enhance the flavor of your dish significantly.
• Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Keep an eye on the cooking time; overcooked orzo can become mushy. Aim for al dente texture.
• Season Generously: Adjust seasoning according to your taste preference; feel free to add more herbs or spices for extra flavor.
• Incorporate More Veggies: Adding more vegetables like bell peppers or peas can enhance both nutrition and taste.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for One Pot Chicken Orzo

One Pot Chicken Orzo is a fulfilling main course, but pairing it with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized make a perfect complement to the creamy orzo.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutritional value while providing a nice crunch.
3. Grilled Zucchini: Grilled zucchini slices bring a smoky flavor that contrasts well with the rich orzo.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw gives a refreshing crunch, balancing the creaminess of the dish.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with citrus dressing adds another layer of flavor and health benefits.
6. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella on skewers offer a fresh bite alongside your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, and it’s easy to make mistakes that affect the flavor and texture of your One Pot Chicken Orzo. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to coat the chicken well with spices before cooking.

• Overcooking the orzo: Cooking orzo too long can turn it mushy. Keep an eye on it and taste it a minute or two before the recommended cooking time ends.

• Not using enough liquid: Insufficient broth can leave orzo undercooked. Always measure your broth carefully to ensure perfect texture.

• Neglecting the vegetables: Overcooked asparagus or spinach can lose their vibrant color and crunch. Add them at the right time for optimal freshness.

• Ignoring rest time: Serving immediately after cooking can result in a soupy dish. Letting it sit for a few minutes helps thicken the sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing and refrigerating.

Freezing One Pot Chicken Orzo

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with date for easy tracking.

Reheating One Pot Chicken Orzo

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over medium heat with a splash of broth, stirring until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other proteins in One Pot Chicken Orzo?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey, beef, or lamb for a different flavor profile.

How do I make One Pot Chicken Orzo vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, replace chicken with vegetable broth and add more vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.

Can I use whole wheat orzo instead?

Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo is a great alternative that adds more fiber while keeping the same delicious taste.

How long does One Pot Chicken Orzo last?

When stored properly, it lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator and up to 2 months in the freezer.

What should I serve with One Pot Chicken Orzo?

This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

One Pot Chicken Orzo is not only rich and creamy but also versatile enough for various dietary preferences. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or protein options. Give this easy recipe a try, and enjoy a comforting meal that comes together quickly!