If you’re looking for a comforting meal that comes together quickly without sacrificing flavor, this One-Pot Chicken and Orzo Recipe is exactly what you need. Juicy, tender chicken bites mingle with buttery orzo pasta cooked right in a fragrant broth, all wrapped up with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. It’s a fuss-free dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate and a perfect go-to for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will become a beloved staple in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential, each playing a key role to create layers of flavor, texture, and color in this One-Pot Chicken and Orzo Recipe. From the savory herbs seasoning the chicken to the creamy finish of parmesan, every element counts.
- Garlic and herb seasoning (1 Tbsp): Adds a fragrant, savory kick to the chicken that sets the tone for the whole dish.
- Raw chicken tenderloins (2 lb): Tender and quick-cooking, perfect for bite-sized pieces in this one-pot wonder.
- Olive oil (2 Tbsp): Helps brown the chicken beautifully while adding rich flavor.
- Garlic cloves, minced (3): Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic notes that complement both chicken and orzo.
- Dried minced onion flakes (1 Tbsp): Adds subtle sweetness and enhances the savory base.
- Low-sodium chicken broth (2¾ cups): Provides the liquid that cooks the orzo while deepening the overall flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
- Orzo (1 cup): Tiny pasta that cooks quickly and soaks up all the delicious broth.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (2 Tbsp): Brightens the dish with a splash of vibrant color and fresh herbal notes.
- Grated parmesan cheese (½ cup): Melts in to create a creamy, cheesy finish that ties everything together.
How to Make One-Pot Chicken and Orzo Recipe
Step 1: Season and Cut the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken tenderloins with the garlic and herb blend—it’s the flavor foundation for the dish. Then, slice them into bite-sized pieces to ensure quick, even cooking and easy eating later on.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet or Dutch oven until shimmering. Add the seasoned chicken pieces, allowing them to develop a golden-brown crust. This step locks in delicious juices and creates extra flavor.
Step 3: Add Aromatics
After the chicken is beautifully browned, toss in the minced garlic and dried onion flakes. Stir and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant but not browned, to build a wonderful aromatic base.
Step 4: Simmer Orzo in Broth
Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and add the orzo pasta directly to the pot. Reduce the heat to medium and let everything simmer gently for 15 to 18 minutes. The orzo will absorb all that flavorful broth and become tender, marrying perfectly with the chicken.
Step 5: Finish with Fresh Parsley and Parmesan
Once the orzo is tender and the liquid mostly absorbed, stir in the chopped fresh parsley and grated parmesan cheese. This final step adds freshness and creaminess, making the dish irresistible. Serve immediately while warm and cozy.
How to Serve One-Pot Chicken and Orzo Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of color and flavor, sprinkle additional chopped parsley or a little more parmesan on top right before serving. A few lemon zest shavings can also brighten this comforting dish beautifully.
Side Dishes
This One-Pot Chicken and Orzo Recipe shines on its own, but if you’d like to serve sides, light green salads or steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans are wonderful companions. They add freshness and texture without overwhelming the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
To elevate the presentation, try serving it in small, rustic bowls or layered with a dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki for a tangy contrast. Offering warm crusty bread on the side lets everyone mop up every last bit of the luscious sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover One-Pot Chicken and Orzo Recipe stores very well. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen as it rests, making leftovers just as delightful.
Freezing
You can freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool completely before freezing to maintain texture and taste.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the leftovers in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the orzo. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and prevent sticking. Microwave reheating works too, just cover and stir halfway through for best results.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?
Absolutely! While orzo is ideal for this recipe because of its tiny size and quick cooking time, you can substitute with small pasta shapes like ditalini or acini di pepe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Traditional orzo is made from wheat, so it contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, you can try gluten-free orzo alternatives or substitute with a similar gluten-free small pasta.
Can I make this with chicken breasts or thighs?
Yes, you can swap chicken tenderloins for breasts or thighs cut into bite-sized pieces. Keep in mind that thighs may take a bit longer to cook and will add more richness.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add plant-based protein if you want more substance.
What if I want a creamier texture?
For a creamier One-Pot Chicken and Orzo Recipe, stir in a splash of cream or a few tablespoons of cream cheese with the parmesan at the end. It adds extra indulgence without overpowering the dish.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Chicken and Orzo Recipe is a hands-down winner whenever you want a quick, comforting meal that feels homemade and special. Its vibrant flavors and simple preparation make it a dish you’ll want to share again and again. I encourage you to try it soon—your weeknights are about to get a whole lot tastier and easier!
Print
One-Pot Chicken and Orzo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One-Pot Chicken and Orzo recipe is a quick and delicious meal combining tender chicken pieces, garlic-infused orzo pasta, and a savory blend of herbs and parmesan cheese. Perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner, it is cooked entirely in one skillet or Dutch oven, making cleanup a breeze. The dish offers a flavorful, comforting experience with minimal fuss and is ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 Tbsp garlic and herb seasoning
- 2 lbs raw chicken tenderloins
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
Vegetables & Seasonings
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 Tbsp dried minced onion flakes
- 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley leaves
Pasta & Broth
- 2¾ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup orzo pasta
Cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Sprinkle the garlic and herb seasoning evenly over the chicken tenderloins. Cut the tenderloins into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and easy eating.
- Cook the chicken: Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet or Dutch oven. Add the chicken pieces and cook them until they are golden brown on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Add garlic and onion: Once the chicken is browned, add the minced garlic and dried minced onion flakes to the skillet. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring to prevent burning.
- Add broth and orzo: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and add the orzo pasta. Stir to combine all ingredients. Reduce the heat to medium and let the mixture simmer gently for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the broth.
- Finish with parsley and parmesan: Stir the chopped fresh parsley and grated parmesan cheese into the cooked orzo and chicken mixture. Mix well until the cheese melts evenly throughout the dish.
- Serve immediately: Plate the one-pot chicken and orzo hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a few tablespoons of cream cheese before serving.
- If fresh parsley is unavailable, dried parsley can be used but reduce quantity to 1 tablespoon as it is more concentrated.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to better control the saltiness of the dish.
- Orzo can be substituted with other small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or pastina.
- Ensure not to overcook the orzo to avoid mushy texture; check doneness at around 15 minutes.
