One Pot Chicken and Orzo Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with an easy, cozy dinner that brings everyone running to the table! One Pot Chicken and Orzo is the ultimate solution for busy evenings, delivering juicy, tender chicken nestled in a creamy bed of perfectly cooked orzo, all infused with garlic, a touch of cream, and bright pops of spinach. There’s hardly anything better than a comforting meal that leaves you with just one pan to wash and plenty of satisfied smiles. If you adore simple, hearty dishes packed with flavor (with minimal fuss), this recipe is about to join your regular rotation!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients shine in One Pot Chicken and Orzo! Every item plays a key role: the chicken brings heartiness, orzo soaks up all those luscious flavors, and a swirl of cream and sprinkle of Parmesan make everything utterly irresistible. Here’s what makes this dish so magical:

• Chicken thighs or breasts: Tender, juicy pieces soak up all the delicious flavors and offer flexibility—use whichever you prefer or have handy.
• Olive oil: Perfect for getting a lovely golden sear on the chicken and sautéing the aromatics.
• Onion: Gives a sweet, savory base that gently melts into the sauce.
• Garlic: Adds comforting aroma and depth, making the whole house smell mouthwatering.
• Orzo pasta: This rice-shaped pasta cooks up tender and creamy, absorbing all the goodness in just one pan.
• Chicken broth: Infuses savory flavor into every bite, helping the orzo cook beautifully.
• Heavy cream: Provides a silky texture and a mild richness that ties the whole dish together.
• Dried oregano: Brings an herby warmth for that classic homestyle flavor.
• Paprika: Adds a gentle smokiness and lovely color—try smoked paprika for even more depth.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
• Baby spinach (optional): Stirred in at the end for fresh color and extra nutrition—feel free to swap in kale or peas!
• Parmesan cheese: Melts into the orzo for that irresistible creamy, cheesy finish!
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional): Sprinkled on top for a burst of color and brightness.

How to Make One Pot Chicken and Orzo

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by heating the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add your chicken pieces, letting them sizzle until they’re beautifully browned on all sides, about 5 to 6 minutes. This step is key for locking in juiciness and creating savory flavor, so don’t rush it! Once done, scoop the chicken out and set it aside for now.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan (hello, flavor!), add your diced onion. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onion turns soft and translucent. Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for 30 seconds more—just long enough to become fragrant without burning.

Step 3: Toast the Orzo

Stir the uncooked orzo into the pan with the onion and garlic, giving it a minute or two to toast. This simple step brings out extra nutty flavor in the orzo and helps it hold its shape as it cooks in the creamy sauce.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Base

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the pan (they’re flavor gold!). Stir in the heavy cream, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Everything is melding together already and the kitchen is smelling incredible.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Nestle the browned chicken (and any juices!) back into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover the pan, and cook for 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure the orzo doesn’t stick and that everything cooks evenly. That’s it—dinner’s almost ready!

Step 6: Stir in Spinach and Cheese

Once the orzo is tender and the chicken is cooked through, stir in the baby spinach and Parmesan cheese. The spinach wilts instantly and the cheese melts right in, making everything creamy and lush. Let the One Pot Chicken and Orzo rest for a few minutes off the heat—it’ll thicken up just a bit and all those flavors will meld beautifully.

How to Serve One Pot Chicken and Orzo

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a lively burst of green and a hint of fresh flavor on top of your One Pot Chicken and Orzo. If you’re feeling fancy, extra Parmesan never hurts! A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten things up beautifully—try it and see what you love best.

Side Dishes

This dish truly shines as a one-pan wonder, but if you’d like to round out the meal, a simple green salad or some roasted veggies makes a colorful, fresh companion. A crusty baguette is perfect for sopping up any cheesy sauce left on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve One Pot Chicken and Orzo straight from the skillet family-style for maximum drama and that “gather-round-the-table” feel. Or, spoon it into individual bowls and top with swirls of pesto or ribbons of fresh basil for a special occasion touch. For parties, keep it warm in a Dutch oven with a ladle—guests will love helping themselves!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover One Pot Chicken and Orzo stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it just as delicious (if not better) the next day. If the orzo absorbs extra sauce, just stir in a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze this dish, though the texture of the orzo may soften a bit after thawing. Cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the One Pot Chicken and Orzo gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding extra broth or a little cream if needed to loosen it up. Stir well and keep an eye on it so the sauce stays creamy and luscious.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Yes! Shredded rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut for busy nights. Skip the browning step and stir in the cooked chicken with the broth and cream, then simmer as directed.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you’d like a lighter version, try using half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be a bit less rich. For a dairy-free twist, coconut milk makes a creamy stand-in (and adds a subtle, lovely flavor).

Is there a gluten-free version?

Swap the orzo for your favorite gluten-free small pasta or even rice. Just keep an eye on the cooking time and add a little extra broth if needed, since different pastas absorb liquid differently.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Toss in extra spinach, kale, peas, or even chopped bell pepper when adding the broth. Zucchini or mushrooms can also be sautéed with the onion for extra color and flavor.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, One Pot Chicken and Orzo is perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd. Use a larger pot, double all ingredients, and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure the orzo is cooked through.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like a warm, creamy bowl of One Pot Chicken and Orzo to turn a regular night into something special. With its rich flavors, simple cleanup, and endless customization possibilities, this dish is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and savor the comfort—it’s a guaranteed hit with everyone at the table!

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