Chicken orzo is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, creamy orzo, and vibrant vegetables. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights. This family-friendly recipe is packed with flavor and nutrition, making it an ideal choice for wholesome dinners.
Table of Contents
Why You Should Make Chicken Orzo
Quick and Easy Preparation
One of the best things about chicken orzo is how simple it is to make. In just about 30 minutes, you can have a hearty, warming meal on the table. The crockpot makes it even easier, allowing you to throw everything in without fuss. This means more time to relax or enjoy with family.
Flavorful and Healthy Ingredients
This dish features an array of fresh ingredients, including asparagus, spinach, and aromatic garlic. The combination of chicken, rich broth, and orzo creates a creamy texture that feels indulgent yet is healthy. Plus, each bite is bursting with savory goodness, making it a delightful choice for any meal.
Perfect for Picky Eaters
If you have kids or family members who can be selective about food, chicken orzo is a winner. The creamy sauce and tender chicken mask the veggies beautifully, making it easier to sneak in those nutritious elements. Everyone will love this dish, and you’ll feel great serving it!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Chicken Orzo
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders, cubed into 1” pieces
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- ½ cup diced yellow onion
- 2 cups chopped fresh asparagus spears
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 8 ounces dry orzo
- 2 ½ cups low sodium chicken broth
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- ⅓ cup half and half
- ⅓ cup freshly grated parmesan
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Chopped fresh parsley and extra parmesan for garnish
Suggested Substitutions
If you don’t have asparagus, feel free to use other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can also substitute boneless skinless thighs for chicken breasts. For a quicker option, add pre-cooked chicken at the end of cooking.
How to Make Chicken Orzo
Preparing the Chicken
Start by mixing the cubed chicken with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes in a bowl until evenly coated. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 10-12 minutes until browned, then set it aside.
Sautéing the Vegetables
In the same pan, add the remaining olive oil and sauté the asparagus for about 2 minutes until tender yet crisp. Remove the asparagus and set it aside with the chicken. Then, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened.
Cooking the Orzo
Add the orzo and minced garlic to the pan, cooking for another 3 minutes until the orzo is slightly toasted. Pour in the chicken broth, bring it to a simmer, and cover the pan. Cook for 7 minutes, stirring halfway through, until most of the liquid is absorbed.
Combining Ingredients
Now, mix in the cooked chicken, asparagus, half and half, parmesan, spinach, and thyme. Heat everything for 1-2 minutes until warmed through and the spinach is wilted. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley and extra parmesan for that delicious finishing touch.
Serving Suggestions
Best Ways to Serve Chicken Orzo
This chicken orzo dish is best served fresh, allowing you to savor the creamy texture and vibrant flavors. It’s a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with a simple salad can elevate your dining experience.
Garnishing Tips
Garnish your chicken orzo with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra parmesan. This adds a pop of color and enhances the dish’s flavor profile, making it even more appealing.
Pairing with Side Dishes
For a well-rounded meal, consider serving chicken orzo with a side of crusty bread or a refreshing cucumber salad. You could also enjoy it alongside a hearty soup like chicken soup with potatoes or creamy chicken tortilla soup.
Storage Tips
Storing Leftovers
Chicken orzo is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Note that the pasta may become drier over time.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, warm the leftovers on low heat, adding a splash of broth to keep the dish creamy and prevent clumping. Stir gently until heated through.
Freezing Considerations
Avoid freezing chicken orzo, as the pasta can become mushy when thawed. It’s best prepared fresh to enjoy its creamy texture and flavors.
FAQs
How to cook orzo and chicken?
To cook orzo and chicken, start by browning the chicken in a skillet. Then, sauté your desired vegetables and toast the orzo. Add broth and simmer until the orzo is tender, mixing in the chicken and vegetables until heated through.
What are the facts about orzo?
Orzo is a type of pasta shaped like rice. It’s rich in carbohydrates, making it a great source of energy. Orzo can be used in various dishes, including salads, soups, and casseroles.
How long is chicken orzo good for?
Chicken orzo lasts for up to 4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. It’s best to consume it fresh, as the pasta can dry out over time.
What to eat with chicken orzo?
Chicken orzo pairs wonderfully with a simple salad or crusty bread. You can also enjoy it alongside a hearty soup like creamy chicken tortilla soup for a comforting meal.
Related Recipes to try
Conclusion
In conclusion, chicken orzo is a delightful dish perfect for any family meal. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also satisfies those cravings for something creamy and delicious. For more inspiration, check out some ideas on Pinterest. Enjoy cooking and savoring every bite of this comforting meal!
Chicken Orzo: A Wholesome and Delicious Meal
Equipment
- large pan
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders, cubed Cut into 1” pieces
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- ½ cup diced yellow onion (about 1/2 a medium onion)
- 2 cups chopped fresh asparagus spears Cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 garlic cloves)
- 8 ounces dry orzo
- 2 ½ cups low sodium chicken broth
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme)
- ⅓ cup half and half (or milk)
- ⅓ cup freshly grated parmesan
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Chopped fresh parsley For garnish
- Extra parmesan For garnish
Instructions
- Mix chicken pieces with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes until evenly coated.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 10-12 minutes until browned, then remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil and sauté the asparagus for 2 minutes until tender but crisp, then remove and set aside with the chicken.
- Sauté the onion in the pan for about 3 minutes until softened, then add the orzo and garlic, cooking for an additional 3 minutes until the orzo is slightly toasted.
- Pour in the broth, bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 7 minutes, stirring halfway through, until most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Mix in the chicken, asparagus, half and half, parmesan, spinach, and thyme, heating for 1-2 minutes until warmed through and spinach is wilted.
- Serve immediately, garnished with parsley and extra parmesan.