Description
This One Pot Chicken and Orzo recipe is a comforting and creamy dish that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight meal. Tender chicken, flavorful orzo pasta, and a creamy Parmesan sauce come together in one skillet for a delicious Mediterranean-American fusion.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Orzo and Sauce:
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley and lemon wedges for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Season chicken with salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika. Brown in olive oil, then set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Cook onion until softened, then add garlic.
- Add Orzo: Toast orzo, then pour in chicken broth and simmer.
- Combine Ingredients: Return chicken to the pan, cover, and cook until orzo is tender.
- Finish Dish: Stir in cream, Parmesan, and spinach. Adjust seasoning and garnish before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute kale for spinach or use rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
- For extra flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding the broth.