One Pot Chicken Orzo

Looking for a delicious, easy weeknight dinner? This One Pot Chicken Orzo is packed with tender chicken, creamy orzo, and savory garlic butter goodness—all made in just one pan! With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this quick 30-minute meal is perfect for busy nights!

🛒 Ingredients for One Pot Chicken Orzo

🍗 For the Chicken

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), diced
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika (for extra depth!)
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning

🍚 For the Orzo & Sauce

• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup orzo pasta (uncooked!)
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred!)
• ½ cup heavy cream (for richness!)
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (adds a creamy, cheesy finish!)
• 1 tablespoon butter (for extra silkiness!)
• 1 cup spinach or kale, chopped (optional but adds freshness!)
• Juice of ½ lemon (for a bright, fresh touch!)

🍽️ Substitutions for One Pot Chicken Orzo

• No chicken? Use shrimp, turkey, or tofu.
• Dairy-free? Replace butter & cream with coconut milk.
• Gluten-free? Swap orzo for gluten-free pasta or rice.
• Vegetarian? Omit chicken and use mushrooms or chickpeas instead!

👩‍🍳 How to Make One Pot Chicken Orzo

1️⃣ Cook the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add diced chicken, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano, cooking for 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
3. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.

2️⃣ Sauté the Aromatics

1. In the same pan, add onions and garlic, cooking for 2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Stir in orzo, toasting lightly for 1-2 minutes (this adds flavor!).

3️⃣ Simmer to Perfection

1. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any bits from the pan.
2. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low.
3. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender.

4️⃣ Make It Creamy

1. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, butter, and cooked chicken.
2. Add spinach (if using) and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
3. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice for brightness.

5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!

Dish up warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and black pepper!

✅ Recipe Tips for the Best One Pot Chicken Orzo

• Toast the orzo slightly before adding broth for a nutty flavor.
• Don’t overcook! Orzo should be creamy, not mushy.
• For extra richness, add a little more butter or cream.
• Want more protein? Stir in cooked sausage or shrimp!

🥶 Storage Instructions for One Pot Chicken Orzo

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream.
• Freeze? Not recommended, as orzo can become mushy.

🔄 Recipe Variations for One Pot Chicken Orzo

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne.
• Mushroom Lover’s: Add sautéed mushrooms for extra depth.
• Greek-Style: Stir in feta, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Lemon Herb Version: Swap Parmesan for feta and add extra lemon zest!

❓ FAQs About One Pot Chicken Orzo

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Just add extra broth when reheating to keep it creamy.

What’s the best orzo to use?

Any uncooked orzo works—just avoid quick-cooking varieties.

Can I bake this dish?

Yes! Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and broil for 2-3 minutes.

What should I serve with One Pot Chicken Orzo?

Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!