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One Pot Chicken Orzo

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This One-Pot Chicken Orzo is a creamy, flavorful, and easy dinner made with tender chicken, orzo pasta, and a rich, garlicky sauce. Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze! Perfect for busy weeknights when you want a comforting, home-cooked meal in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Orzo & Sauce:

  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
  • 2 ½ cups chicken broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (for freshness)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

  1. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Sear the chicken for 5–6 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics & Toast the Orzo

  1. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic and onion for 2 minutes, until fragrant.
  2. Add orzo pasta and stir for 1–2 minutes, toasting slightly.

Step 3: Simmer the Orzo

  1. Pour in chicken broth and Italian seasoning, stirring to combine.
  2. Bring to a simmer and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Finish the Dish

  1. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes (if using), and spinach.
  2. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and mix well.
  3. Squeeze in lemon juice and stir to combine.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

  1. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
  2. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and skip the Parmesan.
  • Make It Extra Creamy: Add more heavy cream or a splash of milk.
  • Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
  • Vegetable Boost: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas for more nutrients.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or cream.

Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/one-pot-chicken-orzo/