One Pan Chicken Orzo

When I think about comfort food, One Pan Chicken Orzo immediately comes to mind. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm embrace after a long day, effortlessly combining flavors and textures in one delightful pan. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a cozy evening, and I wanted something that would not only satisfy my hunger but also bring joy to my family. As the aroma of the sautéed chicken and garlic filled the kitchen, my loved ones gathered around, and the excitement in the air was palpable. The vibrant colors of the fresh spinach and lemon zest made it not just a meal but a beautiful centerpiece to our dinner table.

This recipe quickly became a family favorite, as it brings together the tenderness of the chicken, the heartiness of the orzo, and the lusciousness of the cream all in one pan. What I adore most is the ease with which it comes together; there’s something magical about a meal that you can whip up without the hassle of countless dishes. From the moment you start cooking to the last bite, One Pan Chicken Orzo delivers comfort and deliciousness, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions.

You’ll find that this dish not only satisfies cravings but also opens the door to creativity in the kitchen. Whether you’re adding your favorite herbs or experimenting with different proteins, the possibilities are endless. So, let’s dive into this delightful culinary journey together and make some unforgettable memories around the table.

Recipe Ingredients for One Pan Chicken Orzo

The ingredients for One Pan Chicken Orzo are carefully selected to create a harmonious dish that is both satisfying and nutritious. Each component serves a purpose, from the protein-rich chicken to the creamy texture of heavy cream that ties everything together. The addition of spinach not only enhances the flavor but also adds a healthy touch, making this dish feel wholesome and delicious.

• 1 1/2 pounds chicken breasts, butterflied: This lean protein is the star of the dish, providing a juicy and savory foundation.
• Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning the chicken, bringing out its natural flavors.
• 1 lemon, zested and halved: Adds a refreshing brightness that balances the richness of the dish.
• 1 shallot, peeled & minced: Offers a mild onion flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• 2 garlic cloves, peeled & minced: Infuses the dish with a delightful aroma and depth of flavor.
• Pinch crushed red pepper: Introduces a subtle heat that elevates the dish without overwhelming it.
• 16 ounces orzo pasta: This small pasta shape absorbs flavors beautifully, making it a perfect choice for a one-pan meal.
• 3/4 cup heavy cream: Adds creaminess and richness, elevating the texture of the sauce.
• 1 3/4 cups chicken broth: Provides moisture and depth, making the orzo tender and flavorful.
• Ground black pepper: Complements the other seasonings and adds a touch of warmth.
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Enhances the citrus flavor, making it bright and refreshing.
• 1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan-Reggiano: Offers a nutty and salty finish that ties all the flavors together.
• Handful of spinach: Adds color and nutrients, making the dish visually appealing and healthy.
• 2 tablespoons minced Italian parsley: Freshens up the dish with a pop of color and flavor.
• Lemon slices, for garnish: Perfect for presentation and to enhance the lemon flavor.

Making This One Pan Chicken Orzo

Creating One Pan Chicken Orzo is a straightforward and enjoyable process. You’ll find that each step builds upon the last, leading you to a delicious, satisfying meal. Let’s jump into the cooking!

1. Start by butterflying the chicken. This means slicing the chicken breasts horizontally to ensure they cook through evenly and quickly.
2. Season both sides of the butterflied chicken with kosher salt. This helps to enhance the natural flavors of the meat.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, add a few tablespoons of olive oil. Allow it to heat up, creating a nice cooking environment for the chicken.
4. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the butterflied chicken breasts into the skillet. Cook on each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until you achieve a lovely golden brown color.
5. Add two halves of the lemon, cut side down, into the skillet while the chicken cooks. This will add a wonderful citrus flavor as it caramelizes.
6. Once the chicken is perfectly browned, remove it along with the lemon halves from the skillet and set aside.
7. Lower the heat to low and add in more olive oil if needed. Toss in the minced shallot, garlic, and a pinch of crushed red pepper. Sauté until softened, about 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
8. Next, pour in the orzo, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer.
9. Cover the skillet and cook for about 7 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente. Keep an eye on it to ensure nothing sticks to the pan.
10. While the orzo cooks, slice the cooked chicken into 1/2-inch pieces.
11. Once the orzo is ready, uncover the pan and add the lemon zest, Parmesan-Reggiano, spinach, minced Italian parsley, and squeeze in the juice from the cooked lemon halves. Mix everything together thoroughly.
12. Top the orzo with the sliced chicken and return it to the stove for another 2 to 3 minutes just to warm the chicken back up.
13. Finally, uncover the pan, garnish with fresh lemon slices, and serve immediately.

Recipe Variations about One Pan Chicken Orzo

While One Pan Chicken Orzo is delicious as is, there are countless ways to customize it to fit your taste. Here are some fun tips to mix things up!

• Protein Swaps: You can easily swap out the chicken for salmon or shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Vegetable Additions: Consider adding other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Spice it Up: If you like heat, add more crushed red pepper or even some diced jalapeños.
• Herb Variations: Try fresh herbs like dill or cilantro instead of Italian parsley for a different flavor profile.
• Leave Out the Cream: You can omit the heavy cream for a lighter version. Just add more chicken broth to keep it saucy.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just ensure it’s cooled before freezing.
• Pairing: Serve with a light salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Perfect Matches for One Pan Chicken Orzo

When serving One Pan Chicken Orzo, consider the following to create a complete meal experience:

• Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully, balancing the richness of the cream.
• Bread: Serve with crusty bread or garlic knots to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even a cozy date night.
• Seasonal Pairings: In summer, add a refreshing cucumber salad; in winter, serve with roasted vegetables.
• Wine Pairing: A light, crisp white wine complements the flavors without overpowering them.
• Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
• Garnish: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can add a vibrant pop of color and flavor when serving.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, One Pan Chicken Orzo is a delightful dish that brings together the comfort of home cooking and the joy of sharing meals with loved ones. Its creamy texture, vibrant flavors, and simple preparation make it a go-to recipe in my kitchen. I encourage you to try it and see how it becomes a new favorite in your household.

With its flexibility and ease, you can make it your own by adding seasonal vegetables or experimenting with different proteins. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!

One Pan Chicken Orzo

The ultimate comfort food, One Pan Chicken Orzo is a creamy, savory delight that's perfect for any occasion. This easy weeknight dinner combines juicy chicken, tender orzo, and vibrant vegetables in one delicious dish. Make it tonight and enjoy the warm embrace of this extraordinary meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 590 kcal

Equipment

• Large Pan
• Tongs
• Zester

Ingredients

  

• 1 1/2 pounds Chicken breasts, butterflied
• Kosher salt
• 1 Lemon, zested and halved
• 1 Shallot, peeled and minced
• 2 Garlic cloves, peeled and minced
• Pinch Crushed red pepper
• 16 ounces Orzo pasta
• 3/4 cup Heavy cream
• 1 3/4 cups Chicken broth
• Ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Lemon zest
• 1/3 cup Finely grated Parmesan-Reggiano
• Handful of spinach
• 2 tablespoons Minced Italian parsley
• Lemon slices, for garnish

Instructions

 

• Butterfly the chicken. Slicing the chicken like this is going to help cook them faster and more evenly. Sprinkle the chicken with salt on both sides.
• In a large skillet, set over medium heat, add in a few tablespoons of olive oil. Add in the butterflied chicken breasts, and cook on each side for about 3-4 minutes. I like a nice gold color to each side. Add two lemon halves in there, cut side down. Remove the chicken breasts and lemons and set aside.
• Turn the heat down to low. Add more olive oil, if needed. Add in the shallot, garlic and crushed red pepper and cook on low until softened, about 3 minutes.
• Pour in the orzo, chicken stock, heavy cream and mix. Bring to a gentle simmer. And then cover the pan; cook for about 7 minutes, until al dente.
• Slice up the chicken into 1/2-inch pieces.
• Uncover and add in the lemon zest, Parmesan-Reggiano, spinach, minced Italian parsley and squeeze in two lemon halves. Mix it up and top it with the chicken. Place back on the stove for about 2-3 minutes. I like to just make sure the chicken is warmed back up.
• Uncover the pan; top with sliced lemons and serve.

Notes

• Swap in different protein: I think this would work great with salmon or shrimp. I would sauté the shrimp or salmon in the pan first, remove it and then proceed with the recipe.
• Leave out the heavy cream: If you’re sensitive to dairy or simply don’t have it, leave it out! I would add about 1/4 cup of extra broth in place of the cream.

Keyword Comfort Food, easy chicken recipes, One Pan Chicken Orzo, one pot meals