Description
A quick and easy one-pot orzo pasta with chicken recipe that’s creamy, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights. Made with tender chicken, orzo, vegetables, and a blend of spices, this dish is ready in under 40 minutes with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until fragrant and softened.
- Toast the Orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta and toast for about a minute to enhance its flavor.
- Simmer the Base: Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, then return the seared chicken to the pot.
- Cook Until Tender: Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in chopped bell peppers and spinach, allowing them to wilt and soften.
- Finish with Flavor: Sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese, a squeeze of lemon juice, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot.
Notes
- Protein Swap: Use shrimp, turkey, or tofu instead of chicken.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add mushrooms, zucchini, or chickpeas.
- Cheese Choices: Substitute Parmesan with feta or mozzarella.
- Spice It Up: Add more red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for extra heat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: one pot
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: one-pot chicken orzo, easy pasta dinner, quick weeknight meal, creamy orzo recipe, chicken and orzo skillet