Hey there! If you’re like me, some weeknights can feel so busy that you just want a meal that’s both simple and delicious—without the endless dishes to wash afterward! I’m excited to share with you my favorite one-pan chicken with orzo recipe. Not only is it a breeze to make, but it’s also packed with flavor and nutrients. Trust me, it’s become a go-to in my kitchen, and I think you’re going to love it too!
Nutritional Benefits
This one-pan chicken with orzo isn’t just tasty; it’s also pretty healthy! Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which helps keep you energized and satisfied. Orzo, made from whole grain, provides carbohydrates for energy and is full of fiber. Plus, you can easily add in veggies like broccoli or spinach, which will boost the vitamins and minerals in your meal. This means you’re not only feeding your belly but also nourishing your body!
Fun Variations to Make
- Lemon Zest Brightness: Add some fresh lemon zest to the dish for a lovely zing that brightens everything up!
- Vegetarian Option: Want to make it meat-free? Swap the chicken with chickpeas and add in extra veggies to keep it hearty.
- Spice it Up: If you’re in the mood for something spicy, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeño for a kick!
Easy One-Pan Chicken with Orzo Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs (you can use breasts if you prefer)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup baby spinach (or any greens you like)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or basil) for garnish
Instructions
- First things first, heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet. Sear until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes on each side. Once cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside.
- In the same pan, toss in the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until fragrant and soft, around 2-3 minutes.
- Add the orzo to the skillet and stir for a minute to toast it lightly.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Return the chicken to the pan, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 10 minutes.
- After about 10 minutes, add the cherry tomatoes and spinach. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 5 minutes until the orzo is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Finally, garnish with fresh herbs and enjoy this delightful one-pan meal!
Practical & Valuable Tips
- Leftovers? Store any extra in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
- If the orzo absorbs too much broth while cooking, feel free to add a splash more to keep everything nice and moist.
- Enhance the flavor by using homemade chicken broth if you have it on hand—it makes a world of difference!
Equipment Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this fantastic meal:
- A large skillet or sauté pan (big enough to hold all the ingredients!)
- A cutting board for chopping
- A sharp knife
- A measuring cup for your orzo and broth
- A spatula or wooden spoon for stirring
- An airtight container for storing leftovers (if there are any!)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other types of pasta? Yes! You can swap the orzo for any small pasta you have, like ditalini or farfalle.
- Is it okay to use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Absolutely! Just remember that chicken breasts might cook slightly quicker, so keep an eye on them.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Sure! Just cook it as instructed but store the chicken separately from the orzo. It will keep nicely in the fridge for a couple of days!
- What if I want to add more vegetables? Great idea! Bell peppers, zucchini, or even frozen peas would work wonderfully!
- Can I freeze this meal? Yes! Just store in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months, but I recommend enjoying it fresh if you can!
So, what do you think? Are you ready to try out this one-pan chicken with orzo? I’d truly love to hear how it turns out! Snap a picture of your creation and share it on Pinterest! Let’s connect over more yummy meals!
