One Pan Orzo Chicken Recipe 🍗🍲

Introduction

Welcome to our delicious and easy One Pan Orzo Chicken recipe! This flavorful dish combines succulent chicken with hearty orzo pasta, creating a satisfying and wholesome meal that the whole family will love. With the convenience of cooking everything in just one pan, this recipe saves you time on both preparation and clean-up. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

To make our One Pan Orzo Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 1 cup orzo pasta

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 onion, diced

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 red bell pepper, diced

– 1 zucchini, diced

– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

– 2 cups chicken broth

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

Follow these simple steps to create your One Pan Orzo Chicken:

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.

2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

3. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until they are browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

5. Add the diced red bell pepper and zucchini to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.

6. Stir in the orzo pasta, cherry tomatoes, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Cook for 1 minute, allowing the flavors to meld together.

7. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked to your desired tenderness.

8. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the orzo and vegetable mixture.

9. Cover the skillet again and let everything simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend and the chicken to heat through.

10. Remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit, covered, for a few minutes before serving.

Variations

There are endless possibilities for customizing your One Pan Orzo Chicken recipe. Here are a few variations to try:

– Add some diced mushrooms for an earthy flavor.

– Sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese on top before serving for a tangy twist.

– Substitute the chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer taste.

– For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet.

Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your One Pan Orzo Chicken turns out perfectly:

– Use a large skillet or pan to accommodate all the ingredients comfortably.

– Make sure to brown the chicken breasts well before removing them from the pan. This adds flavor to the dish.

– Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.

– If the orzo absorbs too much liquid and becomes too dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water to moisten it.

Conclusion

With its combination of tender chicken, flavorful orzo pasta, and vibrant vegetables, our One Pan Orzo Chicken recipe is a winner for any occasion. The simplicity of cooking everything in just one pan makes it a convenient choice for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. Feel free to experiment with different variations and additions to make this recipe your own. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

While orzo works best in this recipe, you can certainly substitute it with another small pasta shape like couscous or even rice.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the One Pan Orzo Chicken ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! This recipe is freezer-friendly. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

4. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, you can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth if you prefer a vegetarian version of this recipe.

5. How can I make this recipe spicier?

If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the skillet when cooking the vegetables.