Chicken Orzo Recipe (One Pot!)

If you’re on the lookout for a cozy, comforting meal that packs a punch in flavor while being incredibly easy to prepare, you’ve landed in the right place! This Chicken Orzo Recipe (One Pot!) is the epitome of convenience and deliciousness. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity – it all comes together in just one pot, making clean-up a breeze. Plus, the creamy, savory flavors combined with tender chicken and wholesome orzo create a dish that your entire family will love!

Why Chicken Orzo Recipe (One Pot!) is Worth Your Time

This Chicken Orzo Recipe (One Pot!) is not just another weeknight dinner; it’s a meal that’s full of heart and flavor. Here’s why you should make it:

– **Easy Preparation**: With everything cooking in one pot, you save time in the kitchen. No need for multiple dishes or pans.
– **Flavorful Ingredients**: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan cheese adds depth and richness to the dish.
– **Quick Cooking Time**: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights.
– **Customizable**: You can easily adapt this recipe according to your taste preferences or dietary needs.
– **Comfort Food**: The creamy sauce and tender orzo make this a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

What Goes Into Chicken Orzo Recipe (One Pot!)

To whip up this delicious Chicken Orzo Recipe (One Pot!), you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (see note 1)
• 1 cup finely diced yellow onion
• 2 teaspoons finely minced garlic
• 1 large (12-ounces) chicken breast or tenders, diced into 1/2-inch pieces
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2-1/4 cups whole milk (see note 2)
• 1-1/2 cups uncooked orzo pasta (see note 3)
• 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese, divided (see note 4)
• 3 cups coarsely chopped baby spinach
• 1 lemon (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon-style mustard (optional)

Hardware & Gadgets

To make your cooking process smoother, gather the following kitchen tools:

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Perfect for one-pot cooking.
• Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring the ingredients together.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Cutting Board and Knife: Essential for prepping your chicken and veggies.
• Grater: For freshly grating Parmesan cheese.

Chicken Orzo Recipe (One Pot!) — Do This Next

The steps to create your Chicken Orzo Recipe (One Pot!) are straightforward and easy to follow:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In your large pot or Dutch oven, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the diced chicken to the pot, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Add Flour and Italian Seasoning

Sprinkle the flour and Italian seasoning over the cooked chicken and onion mixture. Stir well to combine, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

Step 4: Pour in the Liquids

Slowly add the chicken broth and whole milk to the pot, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Incorporate Orzo and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Once simmering, add the uncooked orzo and sun-dried tomatoes to the pot. Stir well and let it cook uncovered for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Finish with Spinach and Cheese

Stir in the chopped baby spinach and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the cheese is melted and creamy. If desired, add a squeeze of lemon juice and Dijon mustard for extra flavor.

Step 7: Serve It Up

Serve your Chicken Orzo Recipe (One Pot!) hot, garnished with the remaining Parmesan cheese. Enjoy the creamy goodness!

Budget & Availability Swaps

If you find yourself missing an ingredient, here are some easy swaps you can make:

• Use canned tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes if unavailable.
• Swap chicken breast with thighs for a juicier option.
• Replace whole milk with almond milk or any preferred milk alternative.
• Spinach can be replaced with kale or any leafy greens you have on hand.

Notes on Ingredients

Here are some additional notes regarding the ingredients used in this Chicken Orzo Recipe (One Pot!):

• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: They add a burst of flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, you can use fresh tomatoes.
• Whole Milk: Using whole milk will give the dish a creamier consistency, but feel free to use low-fat milk if desired.
• Orzo Pasta: Make sure not to overcook the orzo, as it can become mushy.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and provides a richer flavor than pre-grated.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

To keep your Chicken Orzo Recipe (One Pot!) fresh, follow these guidelines:

• Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Store in freezer-safe containers.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to help loosen the sauce.

Reader Q&A

Can I use different pasta instead of orzo?

Absolutely! You can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth to make this dish vegetarian.

Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

How do I make this dish spicier?

If you like a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the pot while cooking.

Serve with These

To round out your meal, consider serving your Chicken Orzo Recipe (One Pot!) with:

• Garlic Bread
• Simple Garden Salad
• Roasted Vegetables
• Creamy Soup

Before You Go

This Chicken Orzo Recipe (One Pot!) is bound to become a staple in your household. With its effortless preparation and delightful flavors, it’s a dish that brings everyone to the table. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress! We hope you enjoy making and sharing this comforting meal. Happy cooking!