One Pot Chicken and Cheesy Orzo
One Pot Chicken and Cheesy Orzo: Quick, Easy Comfort Food Recipe for Busy Nights!
Looking for a delicious, comforting, and easy-to-make meal? This One Pot Chicken and Cheesy Orzo is the answer! Packed with flavor and simple to prepare, this dish will quickly become a weeknight favorite. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This one-pot meal combines tender, juicy chicken with creamy, cheesy orzo pasta for a perfectly balanced dish. Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it also cuts down on cleanup time- because let’s face it, who doesn’t love a good one-pot recipe that makes dinner and cleanup a breeze?!
Why This Recipe Works
This easy One Pot Chicken and Cheesy Orzo recipe is a game-changer. It’s packed with comforting flavors, and it’s a great way to sneak in extra protein and carbs for a well-rounded meal. The creamy orzo adds richness and a cozy texture that’s perfect for chilly nights in. Plus, this dish is loved by kids! The cheesy, tender chicken is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. It’s a family-friendly meal that comes together in no time, making it a perfect choice for busy evenings when you’re short on time. The whole family will be asking for seconds!
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect One-Pot Chicken and Cheesy Orzo
- Add More Veggies: Want to sneak in some extra veggies? Try adding broccoli, mushrooms, peas, or even zucchini to the dish! They’ll blend perfectly into the cheesy orzo and add a boost of nutrients without changing the flavor.
- Make It Healthier: Swap out the bacon for turkey bacon, and the heavy cream for low-fat milk- while it won’t be as rich, it’ll reduce the fat content. You can also choose whole wheat or gluten-free orzo instead of regular orzo to accommodate specific dietary needs.
- Leftovers: This recipe makes great leftovers! Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to keep it creamy.
- Flavor Boost: If you like a little extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for some heat.
- Add Fresh Basil: For a burst of fresh flavor and a beautiful pop of color, garnish with a generous amount of fresh basil. Not only will the basil add a delightful herbal note, but it also provides a nutritional boost, rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and K. Visually, the green basil adds a vibrant touch to your dish, making it even more inviting. Plus, it’ll make you love it even more!
One Pot Chicken and Cheesy Orzo
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ pound thick bacon, diced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1½ cups orzo
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cups chicken broth
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup fresh baby spinach
- ¾ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, plus more to taste
Instructions
- Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel. Season the chicken with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
- Add bacon to a large cast iron or heavy bottomed pan, over medium heat. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel lined plate. Discard all but 2 tablespoons of the bacon grease.
- Cook the chicken in the pan with the remaining hot bacon grease, for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until golden in color. Once both sides are done, transfer to a plate.
- Add butter to the same pan used to cook the chicken in. Add the orzo and stir until fully coated. Stir in the garlic and tomatoes. Cook, stirring often, so the orzo toasts and turns a bit golden. Pour in the stock and bring mixture to a boil. Reduce it to a simmer and cover. Cook for 15 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed.
- Add in the heavy cream, spinach and chicken and stir. Simmer for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted.
- Top with the crispy bacon, grated parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately. Enjoy!
