One Pan Chicken Orzo: Effortless and Delicious

Introduction

Hey there! I’m Jenny, the food lover behind Recipes Cookery. Today, I’m thrilled to share a recipe that perfectly captures my cooking philosophy—simple, accessible, and utterly delicious. Let’s dive into my Chicken One Pan Orzo recipe. This dish is not just easy to prepare; it also packs a punch of flavor that your whole family will adore!

Ingredients

Before we get started, let’s gather all the essential ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 cups orzo pasta
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Timing

This Chicken One Pan Orzo dish is perfect for those hectic weeknights. The total cooking time is about 30-40 minutes. Here’s how it breaks down:

• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 25-30 minutes

With minimal cleanup and quick preparation, you’ll have a hearty meal on the table in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps to create your Chicken One Pan Orzo:

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Then, remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Orzo and Liquid

Next, add the orzo pasta to the skillet. Give it a good stir to mix it with the veggies. Then, pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring everything to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Return the Chicken

Once boiling, return the browned chicken thighs to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

After the orzo has absorbed the liquid and is al dente, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving your Chicken One Pan Orzo.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional content of this delicious dish (per serving):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg

This dish is not only tasty but also provides a balanced mix of protein and carbohydrates, making it a great option for a family meal!

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to lighten up this Chicken One Pan Orzo recipe, consider these alternatives:

• Swap out chicken thighs for chicken breast for a leaner option.
• Use whole grain orzo for increased fiber.
• Add more vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or broccoli for extra nutrients.
• Reduce the amount of olive oil to cut down on calories.

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken One Pan Orzo pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some suggestions:

• Serve with a fresh garden salad for a light and refreshing meal.
• Pair with garlic bread to soak up all that delicious sauce.
• Top with grated Parmesan cheese for an added flavor boost.
• Enjoy with a glass of white wine for a perfect dinner experience!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Chicken One Pan Orzo turns out perfectly, keep these common mistakes in mind:

• Don’t skip the browning step for the chicken; it adds flavor!
• Avoid cooking the orzo for too long; it should be al dente.
• Don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Make sure to taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Storage Tips

Have leftovers? Here’s how to store your Chicken One Pan Orzo:

• Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to prevent drying out.

Conclusion

Cooking should be enjoyable and effortless, and my Chicken One Pan Orzo embodies just that! With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you can create a delicious meal that brings your family together around the table. It’s a dish that not only fills bellies but also hearts, making it perfect for any occasion.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While orzo is a fantastic choice, you can substitute with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice if you prefer.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this Chicken One Pan Orzo gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta instead of traditional orzo.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check.

Final Thoughts

Thank you for joining me today on this culinary journey! I hope my Chicken One Pan Orzo recipe inspires you to create wonderful meals with your loved ones. As a busy mom and passionate cook, I know the importance of quick yet delicious recipes. If you try this one, let me know how it turns out. Happy cooking!

Print