One Pot Chicken Orzo

Name: One Pot Chicken Orzo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 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; 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); 8 ounces dry orzo; 2 ½ cups low sodium chicken broth; 2 sprigs fresh thyme (can substitute with 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme); ⅓ cup half and half (can substitute with milk); ⅓ cup freshly grated parmesan; 2 cups fresh spinach; Chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan for garnish

Author: Lora

Published: August 11, 2025

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Introduction to One Pot Chicken Orzo

Let’s be real: some days, dinner can feel like a juggling act. That’s where my One Pot Chicken Orzo comes to the rescue—bringing together tender chicken, colorful veggies, and creamy orzo in just one pot! It’s a quick solution for busy days when you’re racing against the clock. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this dish is sure to delight your family and impress your friends. Picture the cozy aroma filling your kitchen as you create a meal that warms the heart. Trust me; you won’t want to miss adding this gem to your weekly rotation!

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Chicken Orzo

This One Pot Chicken Orzo is not just a meal; it’s a lifesaver! Imagine whipping up a flavorful dish that requires minimal prep and even less cleanup. It delivers hearty comfort without compromising on taste. Trust me, after a long day, who wouldn’t love a quick, satisfying dinner that you can make with ingredients you likely already have? This recipe truly meets your needs, making it a perfect fit for your busy lifestyle.

Ingredients for One Pot Chicken Orzo

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun of cooking! For this One Pot Chicken Orzo, you’ll need a mix of wholesome items that work beautifully together. You’ll want boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders, cut into bite-sized pieces. Their juicy tenderness forms the heart of the dish.

Now, let’s amp up the flavor! Garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes will season the chicken perfectly, giving it that extra oomph. Don’t forget the olive oil—it’s your trusty companion for sautéing.

For the vegetables, I love adding fresh asparagus, but feel free to swap in peas or broccoli if that’s what you have on hand. A diced yellow onion brings a sweet base, while minced garlic adds a delightful kick.

Next, the star of our dish: dry orzo pasta. It’s small, cute, and cooks up creamy when combined with broth. You’ll need low-sodium chicken broth, which creates a rich backdrop for all these flavors to mingle. Fresh thyme is a great herb to bring freshness, but dried thyme can step in when needed!

For that creamy texture, half and half (or milk) works wonders, along with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a touch of decadence. Finally, don’t forget the fresh spinach—it’s vibrant and adds a nourishing green element. A sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra Parmesan as a garnish brings your dish full circle.

Curious about exact measurements? You can find them at the bottom of the article, available for printing!

How to Make One Pot Chicken Orzo

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Let’s kick things off by seasoning our chicken! In a small bowl, combine cubed chicken pieces with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. This mix will give the chicken a wonderful aroma and flavor. Toss everything together until each piece is well coated. Trust me, this step is vital for making sure your chicken is bursting with deliciousness!

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Next, it’s time to add some color to that chicken! Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. As the oil shimmers, add your seasoned chicken. Cook it for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally until it’s golden brown all over. This browning step isn’t just for looks; it brings out deep flavors you’ll love. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside in a bowl.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Keep the flavor train rolling by sautéing the asparagus! In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil and then toss in your fresh asparagus. Sauté for about 2 minutes, just until the asparagus is tender yet still crisp. You want that bright green color to pop! Once ready, remove them from the pan and set them aside with your chicken.

Step 4: Toast the Orzo

Now, let’s add some depth to our dish by toasting the orzo. In the same pan, add the diced onion and cook until it’s soft, about 3 minutes. Then, pour in the dry orzo and minced garlic, stirring well. Cook for another 3 minutes, allowing the orzo to slightly brown. Toasting is key here; it enhances the flavors beautifully, making your dish taste amazing!

Step 5: Add Broth and Simmer

It’s time to create that luscious base! Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring it all to a simmer. Give it a good stir, ensuring you scrape up any browned bits from the pan—those little treasures pack flavor! Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook for about 7 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when most of the liquid is absorbed. Make sure to stir halfway through to keep it from sticking!

Step 6: Combine All Ingredients

For the grand finale, it’s time to bring it all together! Stir in the previously cooked chicken, sautéed asparagus, half and half, Parmesan cheese, fresh spinach, and thyme. Allow everything to heat together for an extra minute or two until the spinach is wilted and everything blends perfectly. This step is where magic happens, making a beautifully creamy and hearty dish!

Tips for Success

Prep your ingredients ahead of time to save moments during cooking.
Don’t skip toasting the orzo; it intensifies the flavor!
Feel free to experiment with different seasonal vegetables for variety.
For added creaminess, use more half and half or milk as desired.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving; it settles the flavors.

Equipment Needed

Large high-sided pan or Dutch oven – a skillet works in a pinch!
Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring – metal tools can scratch your pan.
Small bowl for seasoning chicken – any mixing bowl will do.
Measuring cups for accuracy – eyeballing works for experienced cooks!

Variations

Swap out asparagus for peas, broccoli, or even zucchini for a fresh twist.
Add in diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and flavor.
To make it lighter, use grilled chicken instead of sautéed chicken.
For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth.
Experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano to change up the flavor profile!

Serving Suggestions for One Pot Chicken Orzo

Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
A glass of chilled white wine, like Pinot Grigio, complements the dish beautifully.
Serve with crusty bread to soak up any leftover creamy sauce.
Top with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a lovely presentation.
For extra flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving!

FAQs about One Pot Chicken Orzo

Can I make this One Pot Chicken Orzo ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. However, I recommend enjoying this dish fresh for the best texture and flavor.

Is One Pot Chicken Orzo gluten-free?
While orzo is typically made from wheat, you can find gluten-free orzo in many stores. Just check the package for that gluten-free label to keep the meal suitable for anyone with dietary restrictions.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover One Pot Chicken Orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about three days. Just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if it needs a little moisture.

Can I add more protein to the dish?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in some cooked shrimp or even diced sausage to elevate the protein content. Just adjust the cooking times! You want everything to be perfectly cooked and flavorful.

What can I substitute for chicken broth?
If you’d like to change it up, vegetable broth works great! It’ll still give your One Pot Chicken Orzo an amazing depth of flavor while keeping it vegetarian-friendly. Just remember that the broth adds a rich foundation, so pick one you love!

Final Thoughts

Cooking should feel like a joyous adventure, and my One Pot Chicken Orzo perfectly embodies that spirit. This dish brings together family and friends around the table, offering warmth and nourishment in every bite. The ease of preparation and delightful flavors make it a staple for my busy evenings, and I know it will become one of your favorites too. So next time you find yourself in a dinner rut, give this recipe a try! You’ll savor the joy of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. Happy cooking!