Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 45 minutes with just one pan to clean.

• Flavorful: A delightful blend of chicken, asparagus, spinach, and Parmesan.

• Healthy: Packed with lean protein and vegetables.

• Versatile: Easily customizable with different veggies or proteins.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders, cubed into 1” pieces

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

• ½ cup diced yellow onion (about ½ medium onion)

• 2 cups chopped fresh asparagus spears, cut into 1-inch pieces

• 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)

• 8 ounces dry orzo

• 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth

• 1 cup half-and-half

• 1 cup fresh spinach

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a small bowl, combine chicken pieces with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toss to coat.

2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the diced onion and chopped asparagus until the onion is translucent and the asparagus is tender, about 5 minutes.

4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

5. Stir in the dry orzo and cook for 1 minute to lightly toast the pasta.

6. Pour in the chicken broth and half-and-half, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

8. Add the fresh spinach and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the sauce.

9. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 (approximately 2 cups per serving)

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable Add-ins: Incorporate zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

• Protein Options: Swap chicken for turkey, shrimp, or tofu for a different protein source.

• Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk and dairy-free cheese alternatives to make the dish dairy-free.

• Spicy Kick: Add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat level.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even browning.

2. Is orzo gluten-free?

Traditional orzo is made from wheat and contains gluten. Use gluten-free orzo if necessary.

3. Can I substitute the half-and-half with a non-dairy option?

Yes, coconut milk or almond milk can be used as a substitute.

4. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add chopped jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat.

5. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, add it at the end of cooking to warm through, reducing the overall cooking time.

6. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well in the refrigerator and reheats nicely.

7. Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is not recommended as the orzo may become mushy upon reheating.

8. What can I serve with this dish?

A side salad or steamed vegetables complement this meal well.

9. Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like peas, carrots, or kale for added nutrition.

10. How can I make this dish creamier?

Increase the amount of half-and-half or add a dollop of cream cheese for extra creaminess.

Conclusion

This One Pot Chicken Orzo is a delightful and nutritious meal that combines the richness of a creamy sauce with the freshness of vegetables and lean protein. Its simplicity and versatility make it an excellent choice for any weeknight dinner. With easy substitutions and additions, you can tailor this dish to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the convenience of minimal cleanup!