Name: One Pot Chicken Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed in 1-inch pieces.; 1 teaspoon garlic powder.; 1/4 teaspoon salt.; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes.; 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided.; 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion.; 2 cups asparagus spears, cut in 1-inch pieces.; 1 tablespoon minced garlic.; 8 ounces dry orzo.; 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth.; 2 sprigs fresh thyme.; 1/3 cup half and half.; 1/3 cup fresh grated parmesan.; 2 cups fresh spinach.; Fresh parsley and parmesan for garnish.

A pot of chicken and spinach orzo is surrounded by fresh herbs and seasonings. | kitchenscroll.com

This One Pot Chicken Orzo combines tender chicken fresh vegetables and creamy parmesan sauce. Through testing I've created the perfect balance of flavors that come together in just 30 minutes. It's become my go to recipe for busy nights when we want something both nourishing and delicious.

Quick Yet Special

One pot means easy cleanup while wholesome ingredients create pure comfort. That combination of creamy sauce tender chicken and fresh vegetables makes everyone happy even picky eaters ask for seconds.

Your Kitchen Essentials

Start with good chicken either breast or thighs fresh asparagus and spinach create color and nutrition. Orzo absorbs sauce beautifully while half and half keeps things creamy not heavy. Fresh parmesan garlic and herbs build layers of flavor.

Creating Your Dish

Season chicken well brown it first then cook vegetables separately. Toast orzo with aromatics let it simmer in broth. Everything comes together with cream cheese and spinach creating the perfect creamy finish.

Perfect Partners

Serve with fresh herbs extra parmesan crusty bread. Green salad adds freshness while white wine makes it special.

An assortment of ingredients including orzo pasta, chicken, spinach, shallots, asparagus, cream, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and various seasonings arranged in bowls on a light background. | kitchenscroll.com

Mix It Up

Try different vegetables use pre cooked chicken swap cream levels. Each version creates new dinner excitement while staying simple.

Keep It Fresh

Best enjoyed right away though leftovers keep four days. Warm gently with broth the sauce stays creamy and perfect.

Perfect Orzo

Watch liquid ratio stir occasionally keep covered while cooking. These steps ensure tender pasta every time.

Fresh Takes

Add tomatoes mushrooms extra greens try feta on top. Each addition creates new flavor combinations.

Why Orzo Works

That small rice shape absorbs sauce perfectly while keeping texture. It cooks evenly making dinner quick and delicious.

A pot filled with cooked chicken pieces and orzo pasta, seasoned with spices and garnished, sitting on a checked kitchen towel. | kitchenscroll.com

Storage Tips

Skip freezing enjoy fresh or within days. Gentle reheating brings back that creamy texture.

Serving Style

Present in shallow bowls garnish beautifully add sides thoughtfully. Simple touches make weeknight dinner feel special.

Creamy orzo pasta with chicken pieces and asparagus, garnished with fresh herbs, served in a white dish. | kitchenscroll.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What vegetables work well in this recipe?: Besides asparagus, you can use zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes or mushrooms. These vegetables complement the creamy sauce and maintain the dish's fresh flavor.
→ Can I use pre-cooked chicken?: Yes, you can skip cooking raw chicken and fold in pre-cooked chicken at the end. This modification makes the recipe even quicker to prepare.
→ How do I store leftovers?: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

One Pot Chicken Orzo