Zesty One-Pot Italian Chicken And Orzo Recipe For Busy Nights

Weeknight dinners demand simplicity and flavor, and this mouthwatering one-pot Italian chicken and orzo recipe delivers pure comfort.

Tender chicken nestles perfectly among soft orzo pasta, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.

Fragrant herbs and rich seasonings dance through each delectable bite, promising a satisfying meal that comes together effortlessly.

Mediterranean-inspired ingredients merge seamlessly, turning an ordinary evening into a culinary celebration.

The skillet becomes your canvas, transforming basic components into a restaurant-worthy dish with minimal cleanup.

Aromatic and hearty, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a memorable dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Let’s unlock the magic of this irresistible one-pot wonder.

Cook One-Pot Chicken and Orzo With Ease

• Sizzle the Chicken

Heat a large skillet with a splash of olive oil. Toss in chicken pieces, sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook until golden and perfectly done, then scoop out and set aside.

• Build the Flavor Base

In the same pan, dance some chopped onions and garlic around until they soften and become fragrant. Sprinkle in Italian herbs to wake up the kitchen with amazing aromas.

• Toast the Orzo

Add orzo to the pan, stirring constantly to give it a nutty, toasted character. This step builds deep flavor that makes the dish sing.

• Create the Liquid Magic

Pour in diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Let everything bubble and simmer, covering the pan to help orzo become tender and soak up all the delicious liquid.

• Bring It All Together

Fold the cooked chicken back into the pan. Stir in Parmesan cheese for creamy richness and toss in spinach to add a pop of green. Let everything mingle and get acquainted.

• Final Flourish

Give the dish a taste, adjust seasoning if needed. Scatter some fresh herbs on top for a burst of freshness. Serve piping hot and enjoy your culinary creation!

Tips To Boost Your Chicken and Orzo

• Quick Chicken Browning Pro: Pat chicken dry before searing to achieve a beautiful golden-brown exterior that locks in more flavor and creates delicious caramelization.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the entire dish in advance and store in refrigerator for up to 3 days. Gently reheat with a splash of extra chicken broth to restore moisture and prevent drying.
• Dietary Flexibility: Transform this recipe into a gluten-free option by substituting orzo with quinoa or cauliflower rice. For vegetarian lovers, replace chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas for protein-packed alternative.
• Flavor Boosting Trick: Enhance depth by adding a splash of white wine during the orzo toasting stage or incorporating roasted red peppers for smoky undertones. Fresh herbs like oregano or thyme can elevate the overall taste profile dramatically.
• One-Pan Efficiency: Use a wide, deep skillet with high sides to ensure even cooking and prevent liquid overflow. Non-stick or cast-iron cookware works best for achieving perfect texture and easy cleanup.

Best Ways To Serve Chicken and Orzo

• Fresh Herb Garnish: Sprinkle chopped basil, parsley, or oregano on top for a burst of vibrant flavor and beautiful green color.
• Family-Style Plating: Serve directly from the skillet with extra grated Parmesan on the side, creating a rustic and inviting dinner presentation.
• Side Companion Delights: Pair with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or warm crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce and complete the meal.
• Wine Pairing Magic: Complement the dish with a light white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to enhance the Italian-inspired flavors and create a restaurant-quality dining experience.

Store & Reheat One-Pot Chicken and Orzo

• Smart Refrigeration Strategy: Store leftovers in airtight containers within 2 hours of cooking to maintain optimal flavor and food safety.
• Quick Cooling Technique: Spread meal in shallow containers to help cool faster, preventing bacterial growth and preserving texture.
• Fridge Storage Timeline: Consume refrigerated chicken and orzo within 3-4 days for best taste and quality. Always check for any unusual odors or discoloration before reheating.
• Efficient Reheating Method: Warm refrigerated portions in microwave with a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture and prevent dryness. Stir occasionally and heat until internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Calories: 360 kcal

Servings: 5

One-Pot Italian Chicken and Orzo Ingredients

• Chicken: Select boneless, skinless pieces for quick cooking and easy eating; opt for fresh, high-quality chicken for the best flavor and texture.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds rich, salty depth and creamy finish; choose freshly grated for more intense taste.

• Onion: Provides sweet, foundational flavor base; select firm, bright onions without soft spots.
• Garlic: Delivers robust, pungent undertones; choose plump cloves with smooth, unbroken skin.
• Italian Seasoning: Blends classic Mediterranean herbs for authentic taste; look for brands with vibrant, fragrant mix.
• Basil: Introduces fresh, peppery herb notes; use dried or fresh depending on availability.

• Orzo: Tiny pasta that creates creamy, comforting texture; ensure it's high-quality semolina wheat variety.
• Diced Tomatoes: Adds bright, tangy moisture and acidity; select canned tomatoes with rich, deep color.
• Chicken Broth: Builds deep, savory foundation; choose low-sodium for better flavor control.
• Olive Oil: Provides smooth cooking medium and subtle richness; select extra virgin for best quality.
• Spinach: Optional green that adds nutritional boost and fresh color; use baby spinach for tender texture.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing and balancing overall flavor profile.
• Fresh Herbs (Optional Garnish): Elevates visual appeal and adds final aromatic touch.

Kitchen Tools For Chicken and Orzo

• Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: Essential for cooking the entire meal in one pan, allowing easy sautéing and simmering.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients and preventing sticking without scratching the pan.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Crucial for accurate ingredient quantities and consistent flavor.
• Sharp Knife: Needed for chopping onions, garlic, and any optional fresh herbs for garnish.
• Cutting Board: Provides a clean surface for ingredient preparation.

Hearty One-Pot Italian Chicken And Orzo Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 37 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 5 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Creamy one-pot Italian chicken and orzo brings Mediterranean flavors to your kitchen with minimal cleanup. Parmesan, herbs, and tender chicken create a comforting meal that celebrates simple, delicious cooking you’ll crave again and again.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb (454 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 (14.5 oz / 411 g) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp salt (more to taste)
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
• fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, cooking until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-6 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
2. Aromatics and Base: In the same pan, sauté onions and garlic until translucent. Sprinkle Italian seasoning and dried basil, then add orzo, toasting lightly to enhance flavor profile.
3. Liquid Integration: Pour in diced tomatoes with juice and chicken broth. Bring to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until orzo becomes tender and absorbs liquid.
4. Final Composition: Return chicken to the pan, folding in Parmesan cheese to create a creamy consistency. Add spinach leaves, allowing them to wilt and incorporate seamlessly.
5. Finishing Touch: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Garnish with fresh herbs for a vibrant presentation. Serve hot, showcasing the harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Notes

• Optimize Chicken Texture: Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure crisp, golden-brown exterior and prevent steaming during cooking.
• Prevent Orzo Sticking: Stir orzo frequently and use enough liquid to prevent grains from clumping or burning at the pan’s bottom.
• Customize Dietary Needs: Swap chicken with tofu or plant-based protein for vegetarian version; use gluten-free orzo for celiac-friendly alternative.
• Enhance Flavor Depth: Toast herbs and spices briefly before adding liquid to unlock more intense, robust taste profile in the dish.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 43 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg