One-Pot Italian Chicken and Orzo

One-Pot Italian Chicken and Orzo is a simple, rustic meal that’s full of Mediterranean-inspired flavor. Tender chicken, savory herbs, vegetables, and orzo pasta come together in a rich, comforting dish that cooks all in one pot—making cleanup a breeze. It’s the perfect cozy dinner for busy weeknights or when you want something hearty without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines convenience with classic Italian flavors in the best way. The orzo cooks right in the same pot as the chicken, absorbing all the flavors of garlic, tomatoes, and herbs. It’s a balanced meal with protein, pasta, and vegetables—all done with minimal effort and cleanup. Great for families and perfect for leftovers, this dish is a real weeknight winner.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Orzo pasta
• Onion
• Garlic
• Diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• Chicken broth
• Baby spinach or kale
• Italian seasoning
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Add to the pot and cook until browned on both sides and mostly cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pot, sauté chopped onion until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
4. Stir in the orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and stir to combine.
6. Return the chicken to the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
7. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
8. Stir in spinach or kale and cook for another 2-3 minutes until wilted.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with Parmesan and fresh herbs before serving, if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add extra veggies: Zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers work well in this dish.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta for a richer finish.
• Use different protein: Try turkey, shrimp, or Italian sausage instead of chicken.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth with chickpeas or white beans.
• Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan with a splash of broth or water to loosen the orzo. Microwave reheating also works well—heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

You can freeze this dish, but note that orzo may become slightly softer after thawing. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells can be used, but cooking times may vary slightly.

Do I cook the orzo separately?

No, the orzo cooks right in the same pot with the other ingredients, soaking up all the delicious flavors.

Can I use leftover cooked chicken?

Yes, add it during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through, since it’s already fully cooked.

What’s the best way to keep the orzo from sticking?

Stir occasionally while the orzo is cooking, and make sure there’s enough liquid in the pot.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, but for best texture, freeze without adding leafy greens, and stir them in fresh when reheating.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Absolutely. Use about 1½ cups of chopped fresh tomatoes. You may need to add a bit more broth for liquid.

How do I make this dish more saucy?

Add extra chicken broth or a splash of cream at the end if you prefer a looser, more saucy consistency.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, just skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Can I make this in the Instant Pot?

Yes, use the sauté function for the first steps, then cook everything under pressure for about 5 minutes. Let pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick release.

What herbs go best with this dish?

Basil, parsley, and oregano all complement the Italian flavors beautifully. Add fresh herbs just before serving.

Conclusion

One-Pot Italian Chicken and Orzo is a flavorful, fuss-free dinner that brings comfort and simplicity to your table. With tender chicken, savory herbs, and creamy orzo all cooked together in one pot, this dish delivers on taste and convenience. It’s a go-to recipe for busy nights, and one you’ll return to again and again.

Print