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One Pot Chicken Orzo Recipe

One Pot Chicken Orzo Recipe
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4.8 from 25 reviews

An Easy One Pot Chicken Orzo Recipe that is quick to make! This creamy orzo with chicken is rich and delicious while still being healthy.

Ingredients

Chicken:

  • 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

Orzo:

  • ½ cup diced yellow onion (about 1/2 a medium onion)
  • 2 cups chopped fresh asparagus spears, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 garlic cloves)
  • 8 ounces dry orzo
  • 2 ½ cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme (can sub 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • ⅓ cup half and half (can sub milk)
  • ⅓ cup freshly grated parmesan
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • Chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare Chicken: In a small bowl, combine chicken chunks, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toss to coat.
  2. Cook Chicken: In a large high-sided pan over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and add the chicken. Cook for 10-12 minutes, until brown on all sides. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  3. Sauté Asparagus: In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the asparagus and sauté for 2 minutes, until tender but still crisp. Remove from the pan and set aside with the chicken.
  4. Cook Orzo: Add the onion to the pan and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the orzo and garlic and cook until the orzo starts to toast slightly, another 3 minutes.
  5. Add Broth: Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer. Cover the pan and cook for 7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the cooked chicken, asparagus, half and half, parmesan, spinach, and thyme. Heat for 1-2 minutes until heated through and spinach is wilted.
  7. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and extra grated parmesan. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • This dish is best when fresh. Leftovers may be drier, less creamy, and clump together. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days and reheat on the stove over low heat with extra broth.
  • Orzo pasta sizes vary in cooking times; choose one with a 7-9 minute cook time. Recipe was tested with Barilla orzo.
  • Use boneless skinless thighs or pre-cooked chicken for faster preparation. Other vegetable options include zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms. Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth if desired.

Nutrition

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