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One Pot Chicken Orzo

Creamy One Pot Chicken Orzo for Cozy Weeknight Dinners

This Quick and Creamy One Pot Chicken Orzo is a delicious, healthy comfort food perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts Substitute with chicken thighs or cooked chicken for quicker prep.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Optional fresh garlic can replace.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adjust according to preference.
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes Omit for a milder taste.
For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Can substitute with avocado oil or butter.
  • 1 medium yellow onion Other onion types (like shallots) can be used.
  • 1 cup asparagus Can substitute with zucchini or bell peppers.
  • 2 cloves minced garlic Fresh flavor enhancer.
For the Orzo Dish
  • 1 cup orzo No direct substitutes; rice would require different cooking times.
  • 4 cups low sodium chicken broth Easily replaced with vegetable broth.
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme Can substitute with dried thyme (1/4 teaspoon).
  • 1 cup half and half Can use whole milk for a lighter version or heavy cream for indulgence.
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese Do not substitute but can add feta on top for variation.
  • 2 cups fresh spinach Can substitute with arugula if desired.
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley Enhancing presentation and flavor.

Equipment

  • large deep skillet or Dutch oven

Method
 

Instructions
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine boneless skinless chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the seasoning for maximum flavor.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 10-12 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, add the remaining olive oil and sauté the chopped asparagus for 2 minutes. Remove the asparagus from the pan and set aside.
  4. Add the diced yellow onion to the pan and sauté for about 3 minutes until translucent. Stir in the orzo and minced garlic, toasting them together for an additional 3 minutes.
  5. Pour in the low sodium chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pan and let it cook for about 7 minutes until most of the liquid has been absorbed.
  6. Once the orzo is tender, stir in the browned chicken, sautéed asparagus, half and half, parmesan cheese, spinach, and thyme. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts.
  7. Serve your One Pot Chicken Orzo immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and extra parmesan if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Opt for fresh spinach and asparagus for vibrant flavor and color; frozen versions may alter texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

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