Name: One Pot Chicken Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 medium zucchini, diced; 1 ½ cups orzo pasta; 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish; Lemon wedges, for serving

There’s nothing quite like a one-pot meal that brings comfort, flavor, and simplicity to your dinner table. This One Pot Chicken Orzo Recipe is a true weeknight hero: hearty, delicious, and easy to clean up after. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked orzo, and a flavorful sauce makes this dish irresistible.

I first discovered the beauty of this recipe when I needed a quick yet filling meal for my family. With just one pot to wash and simple ingredients that are always in my pantry, it quickly became one of our all-time favorites. Let me show you why this dish deserves a spot in your meal rotation.

Why You'll Love This One Pot Chicken Orzo

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to weeknight meal. This One Pot Chicken Orzo is the kind of recipe you'll find yourself craving on busy evenings.

First of all, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just one pot, you can have a warm, comforting meal ready in under 40 minutes. No need to worry about juggling multiple pans or creating a mountain of dishes – everything comes together seamlessly.

The flavors are absolutely amazing. The juicy chicken, seasoned to perfection, melds beautifully with the orzo, which absorbs all those savory, garlicky flavors. By the time it’s ready, each bite is infused with rich, satisfying taste.

This recipe is perfect for the whole family. Even picky eaters will devour it, and you can customize the dish by adding extra veggies or a sprinkle of cheese on top. It’s versatile enough to please everyone at the table.

Finally, it’s a one-pot wonder that’s great for meal prep. The leftovers taste just as good the next day, making it ideal for busy lunches or easy reheating on a hectic evening.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this One Pot Chicken Orzo lies in its simple, flavorful ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why they work so well together.

Chicken thighs are the star of this dish. I prefer using boneless, skinless thighs because they remain juicy and flavorful throughout the cooking process. You can use chicken breast if you prefer a leaner option, but be cautious not to overcook them.

Orzo pasta plays a crucial role. This small, rice-shaped pasta cooks directly in the same pot as the chicken, soaking up all the rich flavors from the broth and seasonings. Make sure to keep an eye on it as it cooks, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Chicken broth is the key to a savory, well-rounded dish. It adds depth to the orzo and ensures the pasta stays creamy without needing any heavy sauces. You can use low-sodium broth if you want to control the salt content.

Garlic and onion lay the foundation of the flavor profile. The aroma of sautéed garlic and onion fills your kitchen and creates a fragrant base that enhances the entire dish. Don’t skip these – they’re essential for that deliciously savory taste.

For a pop of freshness, baby spinach is added near the end. It wilts beautifully into the dish, adding a nutritious element without overpowering the other flavors. You can swap it out for kale or leave it out if greens aren’t your thing.

You’ll also want to have some lemon juice on hand. A squeeze of fresh lemon at the end brightens everything up, balancing the richness of the chicken and orzo with a hint of acidity.

How To Make This One Pot Chicken Orzo

Creating this mouthwatering dish is simpler than you might think. Let me walk you through the process step by step.

Start by seasoning your chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and a bit of paprika for a touch of warmth. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add your chicken thighs in a single layer. Let them sear undisturbed for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Next, add diced onion to the same pot, using the chicken drippings to your advantage. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, until the onion turns translucent and starts to caramelize. Then, add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent it from burning.

Pour in the orzo pasta and stir it for about a minute, toasting it slightly. This step adds a subtle, nutty flavor to the dish. Then, add your chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the pot, along with any juices that may have collected on the plate.

Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15-18 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the orzo doesn’t stick to the bottom. Once the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, add the baby spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts and everything is well combined.

Finally, finish the dish with a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped parsley if you have it. The bright, citrusy notes will lift the flavors and make each bite irresistible.

Storage Options

Storing this One Pot Chicken Orzo is a breeze, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

If you have leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to bring back the creamy consistency.

You can also freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container, and thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. The texture of the orzo might change slightly after freezing, but it will still be delicious.

For reheating, use the stovetop method whenever possible. This will help the orzo regain its creaminess, especially if you add a bit more liquid. If you’re in a hurry, microwaving works fine, but be sure to stir halfway through to heat everything evenly.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some ideas for switching things up.

Want to add more vegetables? Try mixing in diced bell peppers or sliced mushrooms when you sauté the onions. These add a wonderful burst of flavor and extra nutrients to the dish.

If you’re a fan of herbs, consider adding fresh or dried thyme or oregano when simmering the orzo. These herbs complement the chicken beautifully and add an extra layer of complexity.

For a dairy-free creamy twist, you can stir in a splash of coconut milk at the end. It adds a hint of creaminess and a subtle sweetness that pairs surprisingly well with the savory chicken and orzo.

Feel like spicing things up? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic for a gentle kick. You can adjust the heat level to your preference.

Finally, if you prefer a vegetarian version, swap out the chicken for chickpeas or cubed tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you’ve got a hearty, plant-based meal that’s just as satisfying.

Experiment with different ingredients and make this dish your own. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a family favorite!