The Best One-Pan Chicken Orzo Recipe

Get ready to discover your new favorite weeknight meal: a truly unforgettable one-pan chicken orzo. This dish combines tender, flavorful chicken with perfectly cooked orzo pasta, all swimming in a rich, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. It’s so incredibly delicious and satisfying, some even call it a “marry me” dish! Enjoy the ultimate convenience with minimal cleanup, making this creamy chicken orzo a comforting and flavorful experience from start to finish.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Orzo

This one-pan wonder brings so much joy to your kitchen and your dinner table.

• Creamy, Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce: Each bite coats your palate with a luxurious, savory sauce, elevated by the sweet and tangy sun-dried tomatoes.
• Tender Chicken and Satisfying Orzo: Enjoy perfectly cooked, juicy chicken alongside al dente orzo pasta, creating a harmonious texture combination.
• Perfect Weeknight Dinner: Prepare a gourmet-tasting meal in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy evenings when you crave something special.
• Minimal Cleanup: Everything cooks in one single pan, dramatically cutting down on post-dinner chores.
• Cozy and Comforting Flavors: This chicken orzo offers a warm, inviting dish that feels like a hug in a bowl, perfect for any season.

Ingredients

Gather these simple yet powerful ingredients to create your mouthwatering one-pan chicken orzo. Each component plays a crucial role in building the dish’s incredible depth of flavor and creamy texture.

• 1.5 Pounds Boneless, Skinless Chicken breast, cut into cubes
• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
• 4-5 Cloves Garlic, mashed
• ¾ Cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes, packed in oil and drained
• 2 Teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 2 Teaspoons Paprika
• ½ Teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 1 Teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
• 1 Cup Orzo
• 2 ¾ Cups Chicken Broth or Water
• ¾ Cup Full-Fat Coconut Milk or Heavy Cream
• 2 Large Handfuls Fresh Spinach
• ¾ Cup Parmesan Cheese, freshly grated

For detailed nutritional information on ingredients like chicken breast, a comprehensive resource is available.
USDA FoodData Central

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

• You can easily adapt this one-pan chicken orzo using what you already have on hand.
• Chicken thighs can replace chicken breast for a juicier result; use the same weight.
• Olive oil can be swapped for avocado oil or any neutral cooking oil.
• If fresh garlic isn’t available, substitute with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder.
• Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes provide the best flavor and texture; if using dry, rehydrate them first.
• Small pasta shapes like ditalini or pastina can be used instead of orzo.
• Vegetable broth or low-sodium chicken broth work well as substitutes.
• For added creaminess, use an unsweetened plant-based milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free option.
• Spinach can be replaced with chopped kale or Swiss chard; add them earlier so they have time to soften.
• To keep the dish dairy-free, omit the Parmesan or replace it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Equipment Needed

You only need a few basic kitchen tools to bring this fantastic one-pan chicken orzo to life.

• A large skillet or Dutch oven (at least 10-12 inches)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• A cutting board and sharp knife
• A sturdy stirring spoon or spatula

How to Make One-Pan Chicken Orzo

Preparing this delicious and creamy chicken orzo is incredibly straightforward. Just follow these steps for a perfect meal.

• To make this recipe, start by preparing the chicken. Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and slice them into cubes. Set them aside while you prepare the skillet.
• Heat a skillet, on the stove, over medium heat, and add in the oil.
• Once the oil is hot, add in the chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the edges start to cook.
• Then, add in the sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, sea salt, and black pepper, and cook for 3-4 more minutes.
• Then, add in the orzo and broth and stir well.
• Reduce the heat to medium, then cover the pan and allow it to cook for 12 minutes. Remove the cover every few minutes and stir, to ensure that the orzo doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
• Once the orzo is cooked through, add in the coconut milk or heavy cream and spinach and stir until the spinach is wilted.
• Finally, add in the freshly-grated parmesan cheese and stir one last time.
• Once it’s done, remove it from the heat, serve it immediately, and enjoy! This creamy chicken orzo is truly a delight.

Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken Orzo

Achieve the best results every time with these helpful cooking tips.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook chicken in batches if necessary to ensure it browns properly and cooks evenly. Overcrowding steams the chicken instead of searing it.
• Stir the orzo frequently: This prevents the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan and ensures even cooking. It also helps release starches, contributing to a creamy sauce for your chicken orzo.
• Adjust liquid for desired consistency: The amount of liquid needed can vary slightly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more broth or cream.
• Taste and adjust seasoning before serving: Always taste your dish before it leaves the stove. Add more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning as needed to truly make the flavors sing.
• Use good quality ingredients for best flavor: Fresh garlic, flavorful sun-dried tomatoes, and quality broth make a noticeable difference in the final taste of this creamy chicken orzo.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even experienced cooks encounter minor hiccups. Here’s how to tackle them for your creamy chicken orzo.

• Orzo too mushy: Reduce the cooking time slightly next time. Orzo cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it after 10 minutes.
• Orzo too firm: Add a quarter cup more broth or water, cover, and cook for a few more minutes until it reaches your preferred tenderness.
• Sauce too thin: Simmer the dish uncovered for an extra few minutes to allow the sauce to reduce. Alternatively, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water, then stir into the simmering sauce.
• Sauce too thick: Stir in a little more chicken broth or a splash of cream until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Chicken dry: Ensure you cut the chicken into even cubes so it cooks at the same rate. Don’t overcook it in the initial sautéing step, as it will continue cooking with the orzo.

Serving, Storage & Variations

Elevate your creamy chicken orzo experience with these serving suggestions and make it last. Garnish your finished creamy chicken orzo with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and herbaceousness. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a delightful warmth if you enjoy a little heat. Serve this hearty meal on its own, or with a simple side salad and crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the delicious sauce.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce, as the orzo will absorb more liquid over time. Gently reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Flavor Variations

Get creative with your one-pan chicken orzo by trying these exciting twists.

• Lemon-Herb: Stir in the zest of one lemon and a handful of fresh chopped herbs like dill or oregano along with the spinach. This adds a bright, zesty note to the creamy chicken orzo.
• Spicy “Marry Me”: Amp up the heat by adding an extra pinch of red pepper flakes with the seasonings. This brings a lively kick to the creamy sauce.
• Creamy Tomato Basil: After the orzo cooks, stir in a quarter cup of chopped fresh basil along with the spinach and cheese. The fresh basil brightens the tomato flavor beautifully.
• Vegetable Orzo: Boost your veggie intake! Sauté sliced mushrooms with the chicken, or stir in frozen peas or corn during the last few minutes of cooking. This transforms the dish into a more substantial vegetable-packed chicken orzo.

Nutritional Information

This creamy chicken orzo offers a balanced and satisfying meal, providing essential nutrients to fuel your day. Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving:

For comprehensive guidance on healthy eating patterns and meeting nutrient needs, the official recommendations are available.
Dietary Guidelines for Americans

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are answers to common questions about making this comforting chicken orzo.

• Can I make this ahead of time? This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the chicken and chop the sun-dried tomatoes ahead of time.
• Is this recipe gluten-free? No, traditional orzo pasta contains gluten. You can use a gluten-free orzo or a small gluten-free pasta alternative to make it suitable.
• Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast? Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative, offering a richer flavor and often staying juicier.
• How do I store leftovers? Store leftover chicken orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Can I make this dairy-free? Yes, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based unsweetened milk, and omit the Parmesan cheese or use nutritional yeast.

Conclusion

This one-pan chicken orzo recipe truly embodies everything we love about home cooking: simplicity, incredible flavor, and comforting warmth. It’s a testament to how easy and rewarding cooking can be, even on the busiest of nights. Don’t just take our word for it; try this creamy chicken orzo for yourself and experience the magic of a delicious meal made in a single pan. We encourage you to whip up this dish soon, and when you do, please come back and leave a review or share your culinary creations with us!

The Best One-Pan Chicken Orzo Recipe

This easy one-pan recipe features tender chicken and orzo cooked with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and spinach in a creamy sauce, finished with Parmesan cheese for a delicious and convenient meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 4 people

Calories 550 kcal

Kitchen Equipment

• Skillet
• Paper towel

Recipe Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1.5 Pounds Boneless, Skinless Chicken breast cut into cubes
• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
• 4-5 Cloves Garlic mashed
• ¾ Cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes packed in oil and drained
• 2 Teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 2 Teaspoons Paprika
• ½ Teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 1 Teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
• 1 Cup Orzo
• 2 ¾ Cups Chicken Broth or Water
• ¾ Cup Full-Fat Coconut Milk or Heavy Cream
• 2 Large Handfuls Fresh Spinach
• ¾ Cup Parmesan Cheese freshly grated

Step-by-Step Instructions

 

Instructions

• Pat chicken breasts dry and cut them into cubes, then set aside.
• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Add chicken to the hot oil and cook for 2-3 minutes until the edges are lightly cooked.
• Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, mashed garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes.
• Add orzo and chicken broth, then stir thoroughly to combine.
• Reduce heat to medium, cover, and cook for 12 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking.
• Once orzo is cooked, add coconut milk or heavy cream and spinach, stirring until the spinach wilts.
• Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
• Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Notes

To prevent sticking, stir the orzo frequently while it cooks. For a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of coconut milk. Serve this dish immediately after preparation for the best taste and texture.

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