One Pot Chicken Orzo – Creamy, High Protein & Easy Dinner

Introduction

If you’re searching for a quick, nutritious, and satisfying meal, this One Pot Chicken Orzo is exactly what you need! Made in just one pan, this creamy orzo dish is loaded with high-protein chicken, tender pasta, and a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s the perfect protein-packed dinner for busy weeknights, requiring minimal prep and cleanup.

This orzo recipe is not only comforting but also incredibly easy to customize. You can add extra veggies, swap ingredients based on your preference, and still end up with a delicious meal. Plus, orzo absorbs flavors beautifully, giving this dish a deep, savory taste in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this healthy high-protein meal is a must-try!

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Why You’ll Love This One Pot Chicken Orzo

• High in Protein – A perfect meal for muscle recovery and energy.
• One-Pot Recipe – Minimal cleanup for a stress-free dinner.
• Creamy & Comforting – A rich, velvety sauce makes it extra satisfying.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
• Versatile & Customizable – Works with different proteins, veggies, and seasonings.

Ingredients for Chicken Orzo Recipe

To make this orzo with chicken, gather the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
• Juice of ½ lemon (for a fresh finish)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large deep pan or skillet
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

How to Make One Pot Chicken Orzo

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté Onion & Garlic

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the finely chopped onion for about 3 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Toast the Orzo

Stir in the orzo pasta, coating it with the onion and garlic mixture. Toast it for 1-2 minutes to enhance its nutty flavor.

Step 4: Simmer the Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring well. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.

Step 5: Cook the Orzo

Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the liquid reduces too quickly before the orzo is fully cooked, add a splash of broth or water.

Step 6: Add the Chicken

Return the cooked chicken to the pan and mix it into the orzo. Let it simmer for another 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 7: Stir in Parmesan & Spinach

Turn off the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and baby spinach. The heat will melt the cheese and wilt the spinach.

Step 8: Finish with Lemon Juice

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish to enhance the flavors.

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy!

Give everything a final stir, then serve warm. Enjoy this creamy orzo with chicken as a satisfying meal on its own or pair it with a side dish.

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Recipe Tips & Tricks

• Toast the Orzo – Helps prevent mushiness and enhances flavor.
• Use Freshly Grated Parmesan – It melts better and creates a smoother sauce.
• Adjust Liquid as Needed – If the orzo absorbs too much liquid, add a little more broth.
• Let It Rest Before Serving – The sauce thickens as it sits, making it even creamier.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Chicken – Cook until just done to keep it tender.
• Not Stirring Enough – Orzo sticks easily, so stir frequently.
• Skipping the Lemon Juice – It balances the creamy texture with a refreshing touch.

Variations & Substitutions

• Make it Dairy-Free – Use coconut milk and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
• Add More Veggies – Mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas work well.
• Swap the Protein – Use shrimp, turkey, or tofu for a different twist.

Serving Suggestions

This high-protein chicken orzo pairs well with:

• A fresh side salad for a balanced meal.
• Steamed or roasted vegetables for extra nutrients.
• Warm whole-grain bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

Refrigeration:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

Warm in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore the creaminess.

Freezing:

Freeze for up to 2 months. However, note that orzo may soften slightly after freezing.

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FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat orzo?

Yes! Whole wheat orzo adds more fiber and nutrients without changing the overall texture too much.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but orzo absorbs liquid as it sits. When reheating, add extra broth to bring back the creamy consistency.

3. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works perfectly in this orzo recipe.

4. How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?

Stir frequently, especially during the first few minutes of cooking.

Conclusion

This One Pot Chicken Orzo is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, protein-rich, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is a perfect healthy high-protein meal that everyone will love. With simple ingredients and a hassle-free cooking method, it’s a must-try recipe for busy families.

Give this orzo with chicken a try today and enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal with minimal effort. If you love this recipe, be sure to share it with friends and family and subscribe for more easy and nutritious meal ideas! Happy cooking! 😊

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