Description
One Pot Chicken Orzo: A comforting and easy dish packed with juicy chicken, fragrant herbs, and tender orzo pasta. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1½ lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1½ cups (300g) uncooked orzo pasta
- 4 cups (950ml) low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pint (300g) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 lemon (zest and 2 tablespoons juice)
- ⅓ cup (20g) fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. In a large Dutch oven or high-sided skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 4-5 minutes until they develop a golden color on the outside but aren’t fully cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Step 2: Build the Flavor Base In the same pot, add the diced onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the chicken (these contain incredible flavor!). Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. This aromatic foundation is what gives your One Pot Chicken Orzo its depth of flavor.
- Step 3: Toast the Orzo Add the uncooked orzo to the pot and stir continuously for 2-3 minutes until it starts to turn golden brown. This toasting process is your opportunity to build another layer of flavor – don’t skip it! The pasta should smell nutty and look lightly toasted.
- Step 4: Combine and Simmer Return the chicken to the pot and add the dried oregano, dried thyme, and lemon zest. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to maintain a steady simmer, then cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom.
- Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches When the orzo is almost tender but still has a slight bite, stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and continue cooking uncovered for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices. Add the lemon juice and half of the chopped parsley, then remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, which will melt and create an even creamier texture.
- Step 6: Serve and Garnish Let the One Pot Chicken Orzo rest for 5 minutes, covered. This allows the pasta to absorb any remaining liquid and the flavors to meld beautifully. Before serving, check the seasoning and adjust with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with the remaining fresh parsley for a bright finish that complements the rich flavors of the dish.
Notes
Fresh ingredients will always yield the best flavor results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 490 calories per serving
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Sodium: 860 mg
- Fat: 18 grams
- Saturated Fat: 5 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 45 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Protein: 36 grams
- Cholesterol: 120 mg