Chicken Orzo Bake

Chicken Orzo Bake is a hearty, comforting dish where tender chicken, creamy orzo pasta, and a medley of vegetables come together in one flavorful casserole. Baked to perfection with a cheesy, golden top, this easy meal is ideal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This one-dish meal is simple, satisfying, and full of comforting flavors. It combines the creaminess of orzo pasta with juicy chicken and wholesome vegetables, making it both hearty and well-rounded. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite add-ins, and it reheats beautifully for leftovers.

Ingredients

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

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Orzo pasta
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream or milk
• Olive oil
• Onion (chopped)
• Garlic (minced)
• Carrots (diced)
• Spinach (fresh or frozen)
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Mozzarella cheese (shredded)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned but not fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, and carrots until softened.
4. Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for 1-2 minutes to toast slightly.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
6. Add the browned chicken back to the pan, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and mix in the spinach.
7. Transfer everything into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
8. Sprinkle with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
9. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Substitute the spinach with kale or Swiss chard.
• Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
• Use rotisserie chicken for an even faster prep.
• Replace Parmesan with Gruyère or sharp cheddar for a different flavor.
• Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place a portion in the microwave until warmed through, or cover the baking dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes.
Add a splash of broth or milk if the pasta seems dry after storing.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, just reduce the sauté time and add it directly with the orzo and broth.

Is it necessary to cook orzo before baking?

No, the orzo cooks in the broth during baking, absorbing all the flavors.

Can I freeze Chicken Orzo Bake?

Yes, freeze after baking and cooling. Reheat from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

What other cheeses work well in this bake?

Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or fontina are great options.

How do I keep the orzo from getting mushy?

Make sure not to overbake and use the correct amount of liquid.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate before baking. Add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

What proteins can I use instead of chicken?

Turkey, shrimp, or even cooked sausage can be delicious substitutes.

Can I make this dish lighter?

Use milk instead of cream and reduced-fat cheese for a lighter version.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Substitute gluten-free orzo or another small gluten-free pasta.

Should I cover the dish while baking?

Yes, cover with foil for the first 20 minutes to prevent drying out, then uncover to brown the cheese.

Conclusion

Chicken Orzo Bake is a delicious, easy-to-make comfort food that brings together tender chicken, creamy pasta, and savory vegetables all in one satisfying dish. Perfect for feeding a family or making ahead for busy nights, it’s a meal that’s as flexible as it is flavorful. Once you try it, it will quickly become a go-to favorite for cozy dinners and hearty leftovers.

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