When it comes to easy, satisfying meals, One Pot Chicken Orzo is a standout choice. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, customizing your menu, or looking for a high-protein dinner, this dish checks all the boxes. Discover the magic of One Pot Chicken Orzo—a recipe that simplifies cooking without sacrificing flavor.

Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines tender chicken, creamy orzo, and fresh vegetables into a complete one-pot meal. It’s a favorite among home cooks for its rich taste and simplicity.

Whether you’re feeding the family or trying something new for dinner, One Pot Chicken Orzo is sure to become a staple in your rotation. Let’s dive into why this dish is a must-try!

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One Pot Chicken Orzo: Comfort in Every Bite

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👨‍🍳 Author: Ava

🌍 Cuisine: General

🍰 Category: Chicken

Ingredients:

01

1 ½ lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders, cut into 1″ pieces

02

1 tsp garlic powder

03

¼ tsp salt

04

½ tsp black pepper

05

½ tsp red pepper flakes

06

2 Tbsp olive oil, divided

07

½ cup diced yellow onion (about ½ medium)

08

2 cups asparagus, cut into 1″ pieces

09

1 Tbsp minced garlic (≈ 3 cloves)

10

8 oz dry orzo

11

2 ½ cups low‑sodium chicken broth

12

2 sprigs fresh thyme (or ¼ tsp dried thyme)

13

⅓ cup half‑and‑half (or whole milk)

14

⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan

15

2 cups fresh spinach

16

Fresh parsley & extra Parmesan, for garnish

Instructions:

Step 01

In a bowl, toss chicken with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

Step 02

Heat 1 Tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Brown chicken ≈ 10–12 min. Remove and set aside.

Step 03

Add remaining oil, sauté asparagus 2 min until crisp-tender. Remove.

Step 04

Add onion; sauté 3 min. Stir in orzo and garlic, cook ≈ 3 min until orzo toasts slightly.

Step 05

Pour in broth, add thyme; bring to simmer, cover, and cook 7 min (stir once).

Step 06

Remove lid, stir in chicken, asparagus, half‑and‑half, Parmesan, spinach. Heat 1–2 min until cheese melts and spinach wilts.

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Delicious One Pot Chicken Orzo

Why This Dish Is a Must-Try

One Pot Chicken Orzo is not just a meal; it’s a solution for those hectic evenings when time is scarce but the desire for a hearty dinner remains.

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy schedules.
• Flavorful: The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh veggies creates a delicious meal.
• Healthy: With lean chicken and fresh vegetables, this dish is a nutritious choice for any family.
• Minimal Cleanup: Everything cooks in one pot, reducing the time spent on dishes.

Ingredients for One Pot Chicken Orzo

The beauty of One Pot Chicken Orzo lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together effortlessly.

• 1 ½ lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders, cut into 1″ pieces
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 Tbsp olive oil, divided
• ½ cup diced yellow onion (about ½ medium)
• 2 cups asparagus, cut into 1″ pieces
• 1 Tbsp minced garlic (≈ 3 cloves)
• 8 oz dry orzo
• 2 ½ cups low‑sodium chicken broth
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or ¼ tsp dried thyme)
• ⅓ cup half‑and‑half (or whole milk)
• ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• Fresh parsley & extra Parmesan, for garnish

Baking Together: Step-by-Step Guide for One Pot Chicken Orzo

Follow these easy steps to create a comforting and delicious One Pot Chicken Orzo meal for your family.

• In a bowl, toss chicken with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
• Heat 1 Tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Brown chicken ≈ 10–12 min. Remove and set aside.
• Add remaining oil, sauté asparagus 2 min until crisp-tender. Remove.
• Add onion; sauté 3 min. Stir in orzo and garlic, cook ≈ 3 min until orzo toasts slightly.
• Pour in broth, add thyme; bring to simmer, cover, and cook 7 min (stir once).
• Remove lid, stir in chicken, asparagus, half‑and‑half, Parmesan, spinach. Heat 1–2 min until cheese melts and spinach wilts.

Ava’s Warm Tips from the Kitchen

Here are some tips to make your One Pot Chicken Orzo even more delightful.

• Flavor Boost: Add a splash of lemon juice at the end for a fresh zing.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap asparagus with zucchini or bell peppers for variety.
• Cheese Choices: While Parmesan is classic, try a sprinkle of feta for a different taste.

Tasty Twists & Sweet Substitutions for One Pot Chicken Orzo

Explore these variations to keep your One Pot Chicken Orzo exciting and tailored to your taste.

• Mediterranean Twist: Add sun-dried tomatoes and olives for a Mediterranean flair.
• Spicy Kick: Include some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Creamy Delight: Use heavy cream instead of half and half for an extra creamy texture.

What to Serve with One Pot Chicken Orzo During Family Time

Enhance your One Pot Chicken Orzo meal with these perfect side dish pairings.

• Kale Salad: A light and healthy option that complements the richness of the orzo.
• Crusty Baguette: Perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Adds a nice crunch and a touch of earthiness.

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A Sweet Moment from Ava’s Kitchen

Every time I make this recipe, it brings our family together. Share your favorite family meal moments with us!

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