The Best One-Pot Italian Chicken and Orzo Recipe Ever Made

Weeknight dinners reach new heights with this incredibly simple one-pot italian chicken and orzo creation that brings Mediterranean flavors directly to your kitchen.

Tender chicken pieces nestle among perfectly cooked orzo, creating a harmonious blend of protein and pasta.

Mediterranean seasonings dance throughout the dish, infusing each bite with robust herbal notes.

Home cooks appreciate how quickly this meal comes together without sacrificing depth of flavor.

Every forkful promises a delightful balance between juicy chicken and creamy pasta.

Minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction make this recipe a weeknight champion that will quickly become a household favorite.

Grab a skillet and let magic unfold on your dinner table.

Why One-Pot Italian Chicken And Orzo Is A Winner

• Simplify Cooking: This one-pot wonder eliminates multiple dishes and complicated steps, making dinner preparation super easy and stress-free for busy home cooks.
• Quick Weeknight Meal: From start to finish, this recipe takes less than 30 minutes, perfect for families needing a fast, delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Nutritious and Balanced: Packed with protein from chicken, complex carbs from orzo, and optional greens like spinach, the dish offers a complete meal in a single skillet with minimal cleanup.
• Flavor-Packed Comfort: The combination of Italian seasoning, basil, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs creates a rich, aromatic meal that feels like a warm culinary hug for the entire family.

What You’ll Need For One-Pot Italian Chicken And Orzo

• Chicken: Tender protein that provides the main substance of the dish, boneless and skinless works best for even cooking and easy preparation.

• Orzo: Small rice-shaped pasta that absorbs flavors well and creates a creamy texture, choose standard wheat orzo for traditional results.

• Onion, Garlic: Foundational flavor builders that add depth and complexity to the dish, fresh is always recommended for best taste.
• Italian Seasoning, Basil: Herb blend that provides classic Mediterranean flavor profile, dried herbs work perfectly in this recipe.

• Chicken Broth: Provides cooking liquid and additional flavor for the orzo, low-sodium options allow better seasoning control.
• Diced Tomatoes: Adds moisture and slight acidity to the dish, canned tomatoes with juice work best for consistent results.

• Parmesan Cheese: Adds rich, salty flavor and creamy texture, freshly grated provides the best melting quality.
• Spinach: Optional green vegetable that introduces nutrients and color, fresh or frozen both work well.

• Olive Oil: Used for initial cooking and creating a flavorful base, extra virgin provides the best taste.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance overall dish flavor, use to taste during different cooking stages.

Making One-Pot Italian Chicken And Orzo Step By Step

Step 1: Sizzle Chicken

• Salt
• Black pepper

Cook for several minutes until golden and fully cooked. Transfer chicken to a separate plate.

Step 2: Awaken Aromatics

• Chopped onions
• Minced garlic

Cook until vegetables become soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Build Flavor Foundation

• Italian seasoning
• Fresh basil

Add uncooked orzo and toast gently, stirring continuously.

Step 4: Create Liquid Landscape

• Diced tomatoes with juice
• Chicken broth

Bring mixture to a rolling boil.

Step 5: Simmer and Soften

Reduce heat, cover pan, and let orzo simmer. Stir occasionally until pasta becomes tender and liquid reduces.

Step 6: Finish with Finesse

• Cooked chicken
• Parmesan cheese
• Fresh spinach

Stir until spinach wilts and everything melds together.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh herbs. Serve piping hot and savor the Italian-inspired comfort.

Top Tips For One-Pot Italian Chicken And Orzo

• Boost Chicken Flavor: Marinate chicken in Italian seasoning and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking to enhance depth and tenderness.
• Perfect Orzo Texture: Toast orzo carefully to prevent burning, stirring constantly and watching for a light golden color that adds nutty richness.
• Quick Vegetarian Swap: Replace chicken with white beans or plant-based protein for a delicious meatless version that maintains the recipe's Mediterranean profile.
• Smart One-Pot Strategy: Use the same pan for each cooking stage to build layers of flavor and minimize cleanup time.
• Customize Greens Easily: Substitute spinach with kale, Swiss chard, or arugula based on seasonal availability or personal preference.

How To Keep One-Pot Italian Chicken And Orzo Fresh

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Seal the dish completely to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss.
• Transfer cooled chicken and orzo to a sturdy glass or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid.
• When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture and prevent dryness.
• Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure even heating.
• Avoid freezing this dish, as orzo tends to become mushy and lose its texture when thawed.
• For best quality, consume within 2-3 days of initial preparation.
• Before storing, allow the dish to cool completely to room temperature to prevent condensation and potential bacterial growth.

Perfect Pairings For One-Pot Italian Chicken And Orzo

• Sip Sangria Sensation: Pair this hearty Italian chicken dish with a vibrant red sangria loaded with fresh fruits like oranges and berries. The fruity, light wine blend cuts through the richness of the chicken and complements the tomato and herb flavors.
• Match with Mediterranean Salad: Create a crisp side salad with cucumber, feta cheese, kalamata olives, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette. This refreshing accompaniment adds brightness and balance to the one-pot meal's robust flavors.
• Crack Open Crisp Chardonnay: Select a medium-bodied white wine with subtle oak undertones that harmonizes perfectly with the chicken's seasoning and orzo's creamy texture. The wine's acidity will enhance the dish's herbal notes and provide a clean, smooth finish.
• Serve with Crusty Garlic Bread: Grab a warm, toasted baguette brushed with garlic butter and herbs. This classic side will help soak up the delicious tomato and chicken juices, making every bite extra satisfying.

How To Change Up One-Pot Italian Chicken And Orzo

• Mediterranean Seafood Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp or white fish for a lighter protein option, keeping the same aromatic herbs and cooking technique.
• Vegetarian Mediterranean Blend: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas, maintaining the orzo's creamy texture and Italian seasoning profile.
• Spicy Southwest Transformation: Add diced jalapeños, swap Italian seasoning for chili powder, and include black beans for a zesty southwestern-style one-pot meal.
• Mushroom Autumn Comfort: Incorporate wild mushrooms like cremini or porcini, use thyme instead of basil, and add a splash of white wine for deeper earthy flavors.

One-Pot Italian Chicken And Orzo FAQ

• What makes this one-pot Italian chicken and orzo special?

This recipe combines simple ingredients like chicken, orzo, and Italian seasonings into a delicious, easy-to-make meal that’s packed with flavor and requires minimal cleanup since everything cooks in just one pan.

• Can I use different types of protein in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can swap chicken for turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even ground chicken. Each protein will bring its own unique taste to the dish while keeping the core recipe structure the same.

• Is this recipe considered healthy?

Yes, it’s a balanced meal with lean protein from chicken, whole grains from orzo, and added nutrients from optional spinach. The recipe uses olive oil and includes vegetables, making it a nutritious one-pot wonder that’s both satisfying and relatively light.

• How can I make this recipe more budget-friendly?

Use frozen chicken instead of fresh, opt for canned diced tomatoes on sale, and buy seasonings in bulk. Buying ingredients during sales and using what you already have in your pantry can help reduce the overall cost of preparing this delicious meal.

One-Pot Italian Chicken And Orzo Recipe

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4.6 from 38 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Savor Mediterranean comfort with this delightful One-Pot Italian Chicken and Orzo recipe that blends hearty chicken, aromatic herbs, and creamy orzo. Rich flavors and simple preparation make this dish a perfect weeknight meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 1 pound (454 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

Pasta and Vegetables:

• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup baby spinach (optional)

Liquids and Seasonings:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 (14.5 ounces / 411 grams) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon salt (more to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Warm a spacious skillet or Dutch oven with olive oil over medium-high heat, creating a sizzling cooking surface.
2. Carefully arrange chicken pieces into the hot pan, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook thoroughly until exterior turns golden brown and interior becomes fully cooked, approximately 5-6 minutes. Transfer chicken to a separate plate.
3. Within the same pan, introduce finely chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until vegetables become translucent and fragrant, releasing their aromatic essence.
4. Sprinkle Italian seasoning and dried basil across the pan. Add uncooked orzo, gently stirring to coat with herbs and allow grains to lightly toast, developing a rich, nutty flavor.
5. Pour diced tomatoes and accompanying juice into the mixture, followed by chicken broth. Increase heat to generate a rolling boil.
6. Reduce temperature to a gentle simmer. Cover the pan, allowing orzo to absorb liquid and soften, stirring periodically to prevent sticking. Continue cooking until grains reach perfect tenderness.
7. Reintroduce cooked chicken pieces into the orzo mixture. Fold in grated Parmesan cheese, creating a creamy texture. If desired, incorporate fresh spinach leaves, stirring until they wilt and integrate seamlessly.
8. Perform a final taste assessment, adjusting seasonings as necessary. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs for a vibrant presentation. Serve immediately while warm and inviting.

Notes

• Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for quicker cooking and easier preparation.
• Ensure chicken is fully cooked by checking internal temperature reaches 165°F with a meat thermometer.
• Toast orzo carefully to enhance its nutty flavor without burning, stirring constantly during the 1-2 minute process.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute orzo with quinoa or cauliflower rice to maintain similar texture and cooking method.
• Add extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to boost nutritional value and create more colorful dish.
• Customize protein options by replacing chicken with shrimp, tofu, or plant-based alternatives for dietary preferences.
• Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate final presentation and add bright, fresh flavor just before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 27 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg