Description
Comfort meets convenience in this hearty One Pot Chicken Orzo, blending Mediterranean flavors with simple, satisfying ingredients. Creamy orzo nestled with tender chicken creates a quick weeknight meal that delivers maximum taste with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 pound (454 grams) chicken thighs or breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
Pasta and Base Ingredients:
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 2 cups (473 milliliters) chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
Vegetables and Seasonings:
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Warm a generously-sized skillet with olive oil over medium flame, then carefully place seasoned chicken pieces and sear until each side develops a rich, golden-brown exterior. Transfer the cooked chicken to a separate plate.
- Within the same skillet, introduce diced onions and vibrant red bell peppers, allowing them to soften and release their aromatic essence. Quickly incorporate minced garlic and briefly toast until fragrant.
- Introduce orzo to the vegetable mixture, gently stirring and permitting the pasta to lightly caramelize and develop a nutty undertone.
- Cascade chicken broth and diced tomatoes into the skillet, then sprinkle in oregano, paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Thoroughly incorporate all elements to create a harmonious base.
- Carefully nestle the previously seared chicken back into the skillet, ensuring each piece is partially submerged. Cover and reduce heat, allowing the mixture to gently simmer for approximately 10-12 minutes. Periodically stir to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Once orzo reaches perfect tenderness and chicken is completely cooked through, fold in freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a creamy finish. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately while piping hot.
Notes
- Customize protein choice by swapping chicken with shrimp, tofu, or plant-based alternatives for dietary preferences.
- Toast orzo carefully to enhance nutty flavors without burning, watching the skillet closely during this step.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels, allowing diners to adjust seasoning individually.
- Add extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach for increased nutrition and variety in the one-pot meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 43 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg