What is Chicken and Orzo recipe? Is it really the hug in a bowl you need after working hard? What was your grandmother’s recipe for Chicken Noodle Soup? What is like that, but leveled up with the perfect little pasta – orzo! Is it comforting but feels a bit more grown up? Is it easy to make? It’s definitely becoming a staple, and I bet you too. I love pasta and chicken, but wanted a change from the usual. So I made this today. Is it really possible to just throw everything in and it always turns out great?
What is chicken and orzo?
What is chicken and orzo? Think of it as a creamy, comforting pasta dish where tender pieces of chicken mingle with perfectly cooked vegetables. How do you cook orzo pasta in a creamy sauce? Orzo, if you’re not familiar, is that rice-shaped pasta that’s just the right size for soaking up. All the flavorful goodness. What is a One Pot wonder? How do you make a ton of fuss? Is it a soup or stew? I feel like it combines everything I love about pasta with the ease of a quick and easy meal. Is it the best of both worlds?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Seriously, where do I even begin? This Chicken and Orzo Recipe has stolen my heart (and my family’s too!) for so many reasons. First off, the flavor is just incredible. The creamy sauce, infused with herbs and a hint of lemon, coats every piece of chicken and orzo in a symphony of deliciousness. It’s savory, comforting, and just plain addictive.
But even more than the taste, I love how incredibly simple it is to make. This is a true dump-and-stir kind of recipe, which means less time in the kitchen and more time doing… well, anything else! It’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you’re craving something homemade but don’t have hours to spend cooking.
And let’s not forget about the cost! This recipe is super budget-friendly, using simple, affordable ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Chicken thighs (my secret weapon for flavor and tenderness), orzo pasta, a few veggies, and some pantry staples are all you need to whip up this culinary masterpiece.
What I love most about this is its versatility! You can easily customize it to your liking, adding different veggies, herbs, or spices to create your own signature version. Throw in some spinach for extra greens, a pinch of Red Pepper flakes for a little heat, or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for extra cheesiness – the possibilities are endless! If you like it creamy, add a bit more cream or milk. It’s all about what suits your taste. It’s way easier to tweak than something like a risotto, and much more forgiving than some of my baking attempts! I’ve even tried it with rotisserie chicken when I’m *really* short on time, and it still turns out great.
How do you make chicken and orzo?
Quick Overview
What is a quick and Easy Chicken and orzo recipe? I’ll start by sautéing some onions and garlic, then adding the chicken and browning it slightly. Next, you’ll toss in the orzo, chicken broth, and seasonings and let it simmer until the pasta is cooked through. When the sauce has thickened, the onions are cooked. What’s a good way to stir in some cream (or milk) and lemon juice? Is it easier than it sounds to do?
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Orzo: What is the best recipe for
1 tablespoon olive oil. 1 teaspoon nutmeg
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces. (Chicken Breast works too, but not as good as chicken breast). What are the best ways to make thighs tender?
1 medium onion, chopped.
2 cloves garlic, minced.
1 cup orzo pasta. 1 ts
4 cups chicken broth (Low sodium is best so you can control the salt)
1 teaspoon dried thyme. 1 cup
12 teaspoon dried rosemary.
Salt and pepper to taste.
12 cup heavy cream (or milk, for a lighter option – I’ve used almond milk and it was surprisingly good).
1 tablespoon lemon juice (Freshly squeezed is always best)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish.
What is the best step
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
How do you heat olive oil in a Dutch oven? Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. How do you burn garlic?
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
What is the best way to cook chicken in a large pot? Does it need to be cooked through at this point, just nicely browned? What is the best way to brown chicken?
Step 3: Add Orzo, Broth, and Seasonings
Stir in the orzo pasta, chicken broth, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes. If the orzo is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed, cook for 15 minutes. Make sure you stir it every now and then so the orzo doesn’t stick to the bottom.
Step 4: Stir in the Cream and Lemon Juice
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the heavy cream (or milk) and lemon juice. What is the best sauce to make? I like to taste it and adjust the seasoning as needed. Sometimes it needs a little extra salt or squeeze more lemon.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately. What are some good side dishes to serve with chicken and orzo? What is the best crusty bread for dipping?
5. What to Serve It With
What should I serve it with?
What are some great side dishes to serve with chicken and orzo?
For a light lunch:What is a side salad with mixed greens and feta cheese?
What is a cozy dinner?Crusty bread, great for sopping up all the delicious sauce, or a plate of roasted asparagus, offer an excellent pairing. What are some good compliments for dinner?
For a Potluck:What are some good side dishes to serve at a potluck? What is a good alternative to pasta?
What are some good leftovers to serve with a meal?
What are some tips for perfecting chicken and orzo?
What are some tips for making Chicken and Orzo? What I have learned over the years that will take it from good to absolutely amazing.
Chicken Prep:If you are using frozen chicken, be sure it’s fully thawed! If chicken isn’t completely thawed, it can add to the cooking time and possibly give a weird taste.
Herb Freshness:What are some good dried herbs to use in this recipe? What are some of my favorite garnishes with parsley?
Broth Usage: Low sodium broth is always best, so you can control the salt. Always taste your food as you go. That ensures it will be absolutely perfect and you’ll have it perfect for your own taste!
Ingredient Swaps:Can chicken thighs be substituted for Chicken Breasts? If you’re using chicken breasts, be sure to check the internal temperature before continuing with.
Baking Tips:Is baking this in the oven an amazing twist? What is a great crowd pleaser and similar to baked ziti?
Glaze Variations: Although this recipe has no glaze, a breadcrumb topping would be an amazing addition. Try adding panko breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan cheese on top!
This dish is really forgiving. I once forgot to add the garlic and it was still amazing. You really can’t mess it up!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Want to make this Chicken and Orzo ahead of time or store leftovers? Here’s the lowdown:
Room Temperature: I don’t recommend leaving this dish at room temperature for more than 2 hours, as bacteria can start to grow.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the Chicken and Orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The orzo may absorb some of the sauce as it sits, but it will still be delicious. I find that it tastes even better the next day!
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the Chicken and Orzo. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave it until heated through, or heat it in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen it up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Orzo Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting dish to share with friends and family, this recipe is sure to please. If you’re a fan of creamy pasta dishes, you absolutely have to give this one a try! I truly think you’ll love it.
If you enjoy this recipe, be sure to check out my other pasta dishes. I’m always experimenting with new flavors and techniques, and I’m sure you’ll find something else you love.
Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Be sure to leave a comment and let me know what you think. And if you make any fun variations, I’d love to hear about them too!
Chicken and Orzo Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Orzo pasta
- 1 cup Chicken broth
- 0.5 cup Chopped onion
- 0.5 cup Chopped bell pepper
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
- 0.25 cup Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
- Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in orzo, chicken broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until orzo is cooked through and liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in parsley before serving.
