Effortless One Pot Chicken Orzo Recipe for Busy Weeknights
My kitchen always comes alive when crafting this delightful one pot chicken orzo recipe that combines simplicity with incredible flavor.
Mediterranean-inspired ingredients dance together in a single pan, creating a meal that feels both comforting and exciting.
Tender chicken pieces nestle among soft orzo, absorbing rich seasonings with each gentle stir.
Weeknight dinners become effortless when you can prepare a complete meal without multiple dishes to wash afterward.
Fresh herbs and a splash of lemon brighten the entire dish, making each bite feel like a mini culinary adventure.
Quick, nutritious, and packed with satisfaction, this recipe promises to become your new go-to comfort meal.
You’ll want to savor every single spoonful of this delectable creation.
Why One Pot Chicken Orzo Is A Must-Try
Ingredients Needed for One Pot Chicken Orzo
Main Protein:Grains and Pasta:Aromatics and Flavor Enhancers:Liquid and Moisture Components:Finishing Ingredients:Step-by-Step for One Pot Chicken Orzo Recipe
Step 1: Sizzle the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until it turns a beautiful golden brown and is completely cooked through.
Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Awaken the Aromatics
In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until they become soft and fragrant, releasing their delicious flavors.
Step 3: Toast the Orzo
Add orzo to the pot and toast it for 1-2 minutes, creating a nutty and rich base for the dish.
Step 4: Build the Flavor Foundation
Add the following ingredients:Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Return and Simmer
Carefully return the cooked chicken to the pot.
Let everything cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo becomes tender and absorbs the delicious liquid.
Step 6: Final Flourish
Stir in fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese, cooking for an additional minute to wilt the spinach and melt the cheese.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Plate the one-pot wonder hot, with an optional sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top for added richness.
Tips for Perfect One Pot Chicken Orzo
One Pot Chicken Orzo Variations to Explore
What to Serve With Chicken Orzo Dish
How to Store One Pot Chicken Orzo
FAQs
Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta like rice-shaped pasta or small shells. Just adjust cooking time according to the pasta package instructions.
No, orzo is typically made from wheat, so it’s not gluten-free. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free orzo or replace it with quinoa or rice.
Yes, replace chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The cooking method remains the same.
The red pepper flakes add a mild heat. If you prefer less spice, reduce the amount or omit them completely. For more heat, increase the quantity according to your taste preference.
Print
One Pot Chicken Orzo Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
Mediterranean-inspired one pot chicken orzo recipe brings together tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and hearty pasta in a comforting dish. Fragrant ingredients blend seamlessly, creating a simple yet satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Protein:
- 1 lb (454 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
Pasta and Vegetables:
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) orzo pasta
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) spinach
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
Seasonings and Liquids:
- 2 cups (480 milliliters) chicken broth
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium-high temperature, creating a golden cooking surface.
- Thoroughly season chicken pieces with robust salt and pepper, then sear until deep golden brown and completely cooked through, approximately 6-7 minutes per side. Transfer protein to a separate plate.
- In the identical pan, gently sauté finely chopped onions and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant, releasing their aromatic essence.
- Introduce orzo and carefully toast the grains, stirring constantly to prevent burning and develop a nutty undertone.
- Pour chicken broth, incorporate diced tomatoes, sprinkle dried oregano and red pepper flakes, creating a vibrant liquid base. Bring mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Carefully reintroduce cooked chicken into the bubbling liquid, allowing ingredients to meld together. Reduce heat and cover, cooking for 10-12 minutes while occasionally stirring to prevent sticking.
- When orzo reaches perfect al dente consistency, fold in fresh spinach leaves and grated Parmesan cheese, letting greens wilt and cheese melt smoothly.
- Remove from heat, allowing flavors to settle for one minute before serving. Optionally crown with additional Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
Notes
- Boost protein by using extra chicken breast or adding diced chicken thighs for more flavor and tender meat.
- Swap spinach with kale or Swiss chard for different nutrient profiles and a slight variation in taste.
- Create a gluten-free version by substituting orzo with quinoa or rice, maintaining the one-pot cooking method.
- Elevate the dish’s spiciness by increasing red pepper flakes or adding a dash of hot sauce for heat lovers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 335 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 610 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 27 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 33 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
Amanda Bennett
Recipe Curator & Culinary Educator
Expertise
Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing and Development, Culinary Instruction, Food Styling and Photography
Education
Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Asheville, NC
Diploma in Culinary Arts
Emphasized practical cooking skills, nutrition, and kitchen management.
Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, Cambridge, MA
Certificate in Professional Pastry Arts
Specialized in baking techniques, dessert presentation, and flavor profiling
Amanda’s roots run deep in the Southern hills, where every meal started fresh from the garden and every dessert came with a story. She trained at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and sharpened her pastry skills at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, blending classic technique with everyday charm.
At The Liffey, Amanda’s passion is making baking and home cooking feel natural and joyful. She’s all about single recipes that are simple enough for a busy afternoon, but special enough to make someone’s day a little sweeter.