What is my go-to dinner when I need comforting food? What is the best food to eat for the whole family? What is the best chicken orzo dinner? Think of it as the love child of Chicken Noodle Soup and a creamy risotto, but way easier to make. If you’re anything like me and stare blankly into the fridge wondering what to do? What is your answer to conjure up for dinner? What is your favorite chicken orzo dinner recipe?
What is chicken orzo dinner?
What exactly is chicken orzo dinner? ) meal where tender chicken pieces are simmered with tiny, rice-shaped pasta (that’s the orzo! ) in a flavorful, creamy broth. Think of it as a lighter, brighter version of chicken and Rice Casserole, but with Mediterranean flair. What are some of the best veggies to eat in a meal? Plus, it’s endlessly customizable – you can throw in whatever vegetables you have on hand. I’ve even been known to sneak in some spinach for the kids, and they never even notice!
Why do I love this recipe?
Where do I even begin? This Chicken Orzo Dinner is seriously a weeknight lifesaver. What I love most about this is the incredible flavor. The combination of the chicken, herbs, and creamy broth is just heavenly. It’s not too heavy, but it’s still incredibly comforting, especially on a chilly evening. And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make. Seriously, it only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, which is a total win in my book. I’m all about minimizing time in the kitchen after a long day. Plus, it’s really cost-efficient. Chicken thighs are usually pretty affordable, and orzo is a pantry staple. Speaking of pantry staples, you can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand. Don’t have carrots? Throw in some bell peppers. No fresh herbs? Dried will work in a pinch (though I always prefer fresh if I can get them!).
I love this recipe because it is so versatile. Can you serve it as a main course, side dish, or even pack it for lunch the next day? What is the best way to reheat a burger? What’s a good way to use up leftover chicken? One time, I had leftover rotisserie chicken, and it made this dinner come together in literally minutes. Is there a way to beat that? I like Chicken Pot Pie Soup, but it’s lighter and brighter, and I don’t care about the smell. I don’t have to worry about making a crust, which is always nice. Is this one of those recipes that just feels like a warm hug on the plate, and I think you’ll agree?
How do I make chicken orzo dinner?
Quick Overview
What is the best way to make chicken orzo dinner? I’ll start by sautéing some veggies, then add the chicken and orzo. What’s the best way to cook chicken orzo? What’s a good way to stir in some cream and herbs for that extra touch of deliciousness? The whole process is so simple and the result is a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying meal that the entire family will enjoy. Will your whole family love you?
Ingredients
For the Chicken Orzo Dinner:
* 1 tablespoon olive oil: This helps start off the flavor base of the dish. I prefer extra virgin olive oil, but regular olive oil works too.
* 1 onion, chopped: Adds a sweet and savory depth to the dish. Yellow or white onions are both great.
* 2 carrots, chopped: Adds a touch of sweetness and color.
* 2 celery stalks, chopped: Contributes a subtle, earthy flavor.
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces: Chicken thighs stay tender and juicy during cooking, but chicken breasts will work too. Just be careful not to overcook them.
* 1 cup Orzo Pasta: This rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and adds a creamy texture to the dish.
* 4 cups chicken broth: Provides the liquid base for the soup and infuses it with flavor. I always use low-sodium so I can control the saltiness.
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
* 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary: Contributes a fragrant, piney flavor.
* 1/2 cup heavy cream: Makes the dish extra creamy and decadent. You can also use half-and-half for a lighter option, or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version. I tried it with almond milk once, and it worked surprisingly well! It just wasn’t quite as rich.
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
* Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Sauté the Veggies
In a Dutch Oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add salt and pepper to taste. Add the onion, carrots, celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step is important because it builds the flavor base of the dish. Don’t rush it!
Step 2: Add the Chicken
Add the chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. What is the best way to do this? Do not overcrowd the pot, or the chicken will steam instead of browning. If you want to cook it in batches, do that.
Step 3: Add the Orzo, Broth, and Herbs
Stir in the orzo, chicken broth, thyme, and rosemary. What is the best way to cook an orzo? Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the onions are tender. What is the best way to cook chicken? Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 4: Stir in the Cream and Parsley
Stir in the heavy cream and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another minute or two, until heated through. Be careful not to boil the cream, or it might curdle.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve immediately and garnish with extra parsley, if desired. What is the best way to serve this dish warm? What are the best leftovers to eat the next day?
What should I serve it with?
What is a complete chicken orzo dinner? What are some good ideas?
What is a good light lunch?Serve with a side salad with lemon vinaigrette. The brightness of lemon cuts through the richness of the orzo.
What are some good ways to have a cozy dinnerWhat are some good ways to serve this with crusty bread? What’s better than a piece of warm bread and the delicious broth? My family loves it when I serve it with garlic bread!
For a potluck:Bring along a colorful green salad or roasted asparagus. I’ve brought this to potlucks many times, and it’s always a hit!
For a complete meal: eat 2 portions.Serve alongside roasted vegetables like broccoli or green beans. I love to serve this with roasted vegetables. What are some of the best ways to make a meal more satisfying? I’ll even throw some roasted veggies into the orzo itself! What’s a good way to sneak in some veggies for the kids?
What are some tips for perfecting chicken orzo dinner?
Over the years of making this Chicken Orzo Dinner, I’ve learned a few tricks that take it from good. What are some of the best tips for a successful business owner?
Don’t overcook the orzo:What should I do if I have an orzo that is mushy?
How do I use high quality broth?What is the best chicken broth? Homemade is always best, but store-bought works too. Just make sure it’s low-sodium.
Adjust consistency: Adjust the consistency.If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon corn starch mixed with 2 tablespoons water). When cooking, add a few tablespoons cold water to the pot during the last few minutes of cooking. If you want a thinner soup, add more broth.
Customize the veggies: VeggieWhat vegetables do you like to add? Mushrooms, spinach, peas and zucchini all work well. I always use what I have on hand.
Add some spice: Add a littleIf you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes to the pot when you add the broth.
Fresh herbs are the key to health.Fresh herbs add flavor to this dish. If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can use dried, but be sure to use half the amount, as dried herbs are more expensive. Are berries more potent than fresh?
Don’t skip the cream: Don’t forgetWhat makes this dish so creamy? If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, or even coconut milk for your recipe. What is dairy-free
I’ve even been known to throw in a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for extra brightness. What is the best flavor to eat?
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
This Chicken Orzo Dinner stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping or leftovers. How do you store and reheat a pizza?
Room Temperature: It’s best not to leave this dish at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the Chicken Orzo Dinner in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It actually tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the Chicken Orzo Dinner. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
Glaze Timing Advice: Since there’s no glaze, you don’t need to worry about that! But be sure to stir in a little extra broth or water when reheating to loosen it up, as the orzo tends to absorb the liquid as it sits. You can reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, or in the microwave in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Orzo Dinner is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together and makes even the busiest weeknight feel a little bit special. It’s easy, flavorful, and totally customizable, so you can make it your own. If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy my Creamy Tomato Soup or my One-Pot Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice. Both are equally comforting and easy to make!
I truly hope you give this recipe a try. I know you’ll love it as much as my family does. And please, let me know how it turns out in the comments below! I’d love to hear about any variations or additions you make. Happy cooking!
How to Whip Up the Best Chicken and Orzo Dinner in 7 Simple Steps
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lb Boneless, skinless chicken breasts Cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup Orzo pasta Uncooked
- 4 cups Chicken broth Low sodium
- 1 cup Chopped carrots
- 1 cup Chopped celery
- 1 medium Yellow onion Diced
- 2 cloves Garlic Minced
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 0.5 tsp Dried thyme
- 0.25 tsp Salt Or to taste
- 0.25 tsp Black pepper Or to taste
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute more.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add orzo and reduce heat to a simmer.
- Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked through and the chicken is cooked.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
