This One-Pot Chicken and Orzo Pasta is a simple and delicious dish loaded with tender chicken, orzo, and flavorful vegetables, all cooked in one pot for easy cleanup!

Introduction

One-Pot Chicken and Orzo Pasta is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and delicious without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. This dish combines juicy, tender chicken with orzo, a small rice-shaped pasta, in a flavorful broth that brings everything together beautifully. The best part? You can make it all in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze!

Orzo is a versatile pasta that soaks up all the flavors from the broth, spices, and vegetables, resulting in a creamy, risotto-like consistency. Chicken adds protein, while veggies like spinach or tomatoes add color and nutrients. This meal is quick to prepare but tastes like it’s been simmering for hours. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together, and you can customize it with your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re a busy parent, a student, or someone who loves easy, flavorful meals, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup baby spinach
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Sear the chicken: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Sear the chicken for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent.
3. Add the orzo and broth: Stir in the orzo pasta, then pour in the chicken broth. Add the oregano, paprika, and cherry tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
4. Return the chicken and cook: Add the cooked chicken back into the pot and stir everything together. Reduce the heat and let the orzo cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the broth has mostly been absorbed.
5. Stir in the spinach and cheese: Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the baby spinach and let it wilt for 1-2 minutes. If desired, add grated Parmesan cheese for a creamy finish. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread.

How to Prepare

One-Pot Chicken and Orzo Pasta is incredibly easy to prepare, with everything cooking together in one pot. Start by searing the chicken to lock in flavor, then sauté the onions and garlic to build a fragrant base. The orzo simmers in the broth with vegetables and spices, soaking up all the delicious flavors. The spinach is added at the end to retain its bright green color and fresh taste. The entire dish comes together quickly, making it an ideal meal for any night of the week.

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Servings

This recipe serves 4 people.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   Yes, while orzo works great in this recipe, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. Can I add other vegetables?
   Absolutely! You can add vegetables like zucchini, peas, or bell peppers to this dish. Simply sauté them with the onions for extra flavor and nutrients.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   This dish can be made ahead, but the orzo will absorb more liquid as it sits. You may need to add a little extra broth when reheating to maintain the desired consistency.
4. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Yes, chicken thighs work perfectly in this recipe and add even more flavor due to their higher fat content.
5. Can I make this dairy-free?
   You can skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. The dish will still be flavorful without the cheese.

Conclusion

One-Pot Chicken and Orzo Pasta is a fantastic meal option when you need something fast, flavorful, and easy to clean up. With tender chicken, creamy orzo, and fresh vegetables, it’s a well-balanced dish that everyone will love. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a hearty, comforting meal with minimal fuss. Plus, with only one pot to clean, you’ll have more time to relax and enjoy your dinner!