A pot of this creamy One Pot Chicken Orzo bubbling on the stove smells like comfort itself. I made it last week during a hectic Tuesday, and halfway through dinner, everyone at the table finally exhaled. It’s the kind of simple, warm meal that resets a whole day in just one bite.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick: ready in just 30 minutes
- Only one pot to clean
- Packed with protein and flavor
- Perfect for busy weeknights
- Great for leftovers too
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses pantry basics and fresh fridge staples. Nothing fancy, just good, honest ingredients:
- Olive oil: For searing and flavor
- Chicken breasts: Cubed small for faster cooking
- Salt, pepper, Italian seasoning: Your flavor foundation
- Garlic and onion: For that rich, savory aroma
- Carrots and celery: Add sweetness and heartiness
- Orzo pasta: The star, small but filling
- Chicken broth and milk: Bring the creamy base together
- Parmesan cheese: For a nutty, salty finish
- Parsley: A bright, fresh touch to end
How to Make One Pot Chicken Orzo
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken. Sprinkle on salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is golden on the outside, about 4 to 5 minutes.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Veggies
Toss in the garlic, onion, carrots, and celery. Stir and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, until everything smells amazing and starts to soften.
Step 3: Add Orzo and Liquids
Next, stir in the orzo, chicken broth, and milk. Scrape the bottom of the pot a bit to lift any golden bits. Bring everything to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Simmer and Finish
Lower the heat to a simmer. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring now and then so the orzo doesn’t stick. Once tender, stir in parmesan and parsley. That creamy, cheesy finish brings it all together.
Easy Ingredient Swaps
Chicken Options
You can easily swap the breasts for chicken thighs. Or use shredded rotisserie chicken to save even more time.
Veggie Ideas
Add baby spinach near the end or toss in peas or mushrooms with the carrots. They cook fast and add nice texture.
Dairy Substitutes
No milk? Use more broth. You can also use almond or oat milk if you prefer non-dairy.
Cheese Options
Parmesan gives great depth, but pecorino works well too.
Broth Tips
Any low-sodium broth will work. If using full-sodium, cut back on added salt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I rinse orzo before cooking?
Nope. Just add it dry straight to the pot. It will absorb all the flavor.
Can I make it creamier?
Absolutely. Stir in a splash of cream at the end or more cheese for that ultra-creamy vibe.
How long will leftovers last?
Up to 4 days in a sealed container in the fridge. The orzo soaks up more liquid over time, but it’s still delicious.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Let the orzo cool before storing. Use an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or milk before warming it on the stove or microwave. This helps loosen it up. Freezing isn’t ideal—orczo tends to lose its texture.
What to Serve with Chicken Orzo
We like this with a simple green salad on the side. Roasted broccoli or garlic bread also pair really well. Or just sprinkle on extra cheese and call it a day.
One Pot Chicken Orzo Recipe Card
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One Pot Chicken Orzo – Quick & Delicious Comfort Food
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
A creamy, comforting one-pot chicken orzo dinner ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy nights.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped carrots
1/2 cup chopped celery
1 cup orzo pasta (uncooked)
2 cups low sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup milk (any kind)
1/4 cup parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a pot.
2. Add chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned.
3. Stir in garlic, onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 3–5 minutes until softened.
4. Add orzo, chicken broth, and milk. Stir and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally until orzo is tender.
6. Stir in parmesan cheese and parsley. Serve warm.
Notes
Can substitute chicken breasts with thighs.
Use gluten-free orzo if needed.
Any milk (dairy or non-dairy) works.
Add spinach or peas for extra veggies.
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.
Freezing not recommended due to orzo texture changes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Chicken Recipes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 394
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 571mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 89mg
More Such Recipes
Looking for more one-pot comfort? Try these:
- This cozy skillet chicken thighs with broccoli cheddar orzo is a weeknight hero.
- Or go bold with easy chicken pesto pasta
- Craving ranch flavors? This creamy ranch chicken hits the spot.
- For garlic lovers, this garlic parmesan chicken recipe is pure comfort.
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Chicken Orzo proves that a nourishing, flavorful dinner doesn’t have to be fussy. It’s quick, creamy, and fills the kitchen with that home-cooked warmth we all need sometimes. Try it tonight. Then check out more simple dinner ideas and connect with us on Pinterest or Facebook.