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
Scale
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