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One Pot Chicken and Orzo Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 40 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Description

This one pot chicken and orzo recipe is a flavorful, easy-to-make dinner that combines tender chicken pieces with orzo pasta, spinach, and a savory tomato broth, all cooked together for a comforting and satisfying meal ready in just 40 minutes.

Ingredients

Protein

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup spinach, roughly chopped
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

Pantry & Seasonings

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil: In a large pot over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil until shimmering.
  2. Cook chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pot, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides but not cooked through, about 4-5 minutes.
  3. Sauté aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the chicken. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
  4. Add orzo and liquids: Stir in the orzo pasta, diced tomatoes with their juices, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
  5. Simmer and cook orzo: Cover the pot and let the contents simmer for about 10-12 minutes or until the orzo is tender and the chicken is fully cooked, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Add spinach and cheese: Stir in the roughly chopped spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the sauce.
  7. Garnish and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving for a burst of freshness.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs for more tender, flavorful meat; breasts work well if you prefer leaner protein.
  • If you like a creamier texture, stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end.
  • You can substitute vegetable broth to make this recipe suitable for vegetarians by omitting the chicken and using plant-based protein.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta or rice.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/one-pot-chicken-and-orzo-recipe-2/