Chicken and Orzo

Chicken and Orzo is a light yet satisfying dish that features tender, juicy chicken paired with delicate orzo pasta in a flavorful, savory sauce. This meal comes together quickly and is perfect for a weeknight dinner, with a combination of fresh ingredients that bring out bright, comforting flavors in every bite.

I first made this when I was craving something easy but still packed with flavor, and it quickly became a go-to meal. The juicy chicken, perfectly cooked orzo, and the simple lemon, garlic, and herb sauce made the dish both vibrant and rich without being heavy. It was the perfect balance of comfort and freshness.

What’s great about Chicken and Orzo is its versatility. You can add veggies like spinach, tomatoes, or peas to make it even more colorful, or swap in chicken thighs for more flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a quick dinner or a meal prep option, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Perfect for:

• Quick and easy dinners
• Meal prepping
• Family-friendly meals
• Mediterranean cuisine lovers
• One-pot cooking enthusiasts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why Chicken and Orzo will become a staple in your kitchen:

• One-Pan Convenience: Everything cooks in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
• Flavor-Packed: A combination of herbs, garlic, and broth infuses every bite with deep, comforting flavors.
• Perfectly Tender Chicken: The chicken is seared to golden perfection and then simmered to juicy tenderness.
• Hearty and Satisfying: Orzo pasta soaks up all the delicious flavors, making this dish filling and wholesome.
• Balanced Meal: A well-rounded mix of protein, carbs, and veggies in one dish.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Customizable Ingredients: Easily adjust seasonings, add veggies, or swap proteins to suit your taste.
• Comfort Food with a Twist: A Mediterranean-inspired dish that feels both hearty and refreshing.
• Kid-Friendly: Mild flavors make it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Tastes even better the next day, perfect for leftovers.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 50g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Orzo and Sauce:

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• ½ cup baby spinach or kale (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken Thighs: Juicy and flavorful, but can be swapped for chicken breasts.
• Orzo Pasta: Small rice-shaped pasta that absorbs flavors beautifully.
• Garlic and Herbs: Adds depth and warmth to the dish.
• Lemon Juice: Brightens the flavors and adds freshness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Gives a creamy, umami-rich finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Chicken:

1. Season Chicken: Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Prepare the Orzo and Sauce:

3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add diced onions and garlic. Cook for 2 minutes until softened.
4. Toast the Orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden.
5. Add Seasonings: Sprinkle in thyme and red pepper flakes. Stir well.
6. Pour in Broth and Tomatoes: Add chicken broth and diced tomatoes, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.

Simmer and Finish:

7. Return Chicken to Skillet: Nestle the chicken back into the pan, cover, and let simmer for 10-12 minutes until the orzo is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
8. Add Greens and Lemon Juice: Stir in baby spinach and lemon juice. Let cook for 2 more minutes until greens are wilted.
9. Finish with Parmesan and Herbs: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley.

Serve:

10. Garnish and Enjoy: Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and a lemon wedge on the side.

How to Serve

Here are 9 serving suggestions for Chicken and Orzo:

• With Crusty Bread: Serve with warm bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• As a Light Lunch: Enjoy a smaller portion with a side salad.
• With a Side of Roasted Vegetables: Complement with roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus.
• Topped with Feta Cheese: Add crumbled feta for a Mediterranean twist.
• For Meal Prep: Store in individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.
• With a Spicy Kick: Drizzle with hot sauce or sprinkle extra red pepper flakes.
• As a Cozy Winter Meal: Serve warm with a bowl of soup for ultimate comfort.
• For a Low-Carb Option: Swap orzo for cauliflower rice or quinoa.
• As a Party Dish: Serve in a large skillet for family-style dining.

Additional Tips

• Toast the Orzo – Lightly toast the orzo in olive oil before adding liquid to enhance its nutty flavor.
• Use Bone-In Chicken – If using bone-in chicken, sear it first and let it cook in the broth for extra depth of flavor.
• Add Aromatics – Sauté garlic, onions, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a flavorful base.
• Stir Occasionally – Orzo can stick to the pan, so stir occasionally to prevent burning or clumping.
• Use Chicken Broth – Cook the orzo in chicken broth instead of water for a richer taste.
• Finish with Lemon Zest – A touch of lemon zest at the end brightens up the dish.
• Incorporate Fresh Herbs – Stir in fresh parsley, basil, or thyme for a fresh and aromatic finish.
• Add a Creamy Element – Stir in a bit of cream, butter, or Parmesan cheese for a velvety texture.
• Let It Rest – Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving so the flavors meld together.

Recipe Variations

• Lemon Herb Chicken and Orzo – Add fresh lemon juice, zest, and a mix of parsley, thyme, and oregano for a bright, herby twist.
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Orzo – Stir in heavy cream, grated Parmesan, and roasted garlic for a rich, comforting dish.
• Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo – Include kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, and a sprinkle of oregano for a Greek-inspired flavor.
• Spicy Cajun Chicken and Orzo – Toss the chicken with Cajun seasoning and add bell peppers and a dash of hot sauce for a bold, smoky kick.
• Tomato Basil Chicken and Orzo – Use diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and a touch of balsamic vinegar for an Italian-style variation.
• Pesto Chicken and Orzo – Stir in basil pesto, cherry tomatoes, and toasted pine nuts for a vibrant, nutty taste.
• Mushroom and Spinach Chicken Orzo – Sauté mushrooms and spinach, then mix them into the orzo with a splash of white wine for extra depth.
• Curried Chicken and Orzo – Infuse the dish with curry powder, coconut milk, and a handful of peas for a fragrant, creamy twist.
• Mexican-Style Chicken and Orzo – Add black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, cumin, and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese for a Tex-Mex spin.
• Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Orzo – Stir in steamed broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese for a creamy, cheesy variation.

Special Equipment

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: For even cooking and easy one-pot preparation.
• Wooden Spoon: Helps stir ingredients without scratching the pan.
• Lid for the Skillet: Essential for simmering the orzo.
• Sharp Knife: For chopping vegetables and trimming chicken.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient portions.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use rice instead of orzo?
   Yes! Adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly.
2. How do I store leftovers?
   Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
3. Can I freeze this dish?
   Yes, freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
4. Can I make it dairy-free?
   Omit Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
5. What other vegetables can I add?
   Bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or peas work great.
6. How do I keep orzo from sticking?
   Stir occasionally while simmering.
7. Can I use whole wheat orzo?
   Yes, but it may require slightly more liquid.
8. What’s the best way to reheat it?
   Heat in a skillet with a splash of broth to keep it from drying out.
9. Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
   Yes, use the sauté function for searing and pressure cook for 5 minutes.
10. Is this dish gluten-free?
    No, but you can use gluten-free pasta or rice as a substitute.

Conclusion

Chicken and Orzo is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with small, rice-like orzo pasta, creating a comforting, satisfying meal. The chicken is perfectly seasoned, then cooked to golden perfection and paired with buttery, tender orzo. Whether you’re adding vegetables, fresh herbs, or a touch of Parmesan, each bite is a delicious blend of savory, comforting flavors.

This dish is incredibly versatile—add spinach, peas, or roasted tomatoes for extra color and nutrients, or drizzle with lemon juice for a bright, fresh finish. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an easy meal to prep for the week ahead.

I can’t wait to see how your Chicken and Orzo turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your delicious creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!