Save It This One Pot Chicken and Orzo Pasta brings together tender chicken pieces creamy orzo sweet peas and a splash of lemon for a comforting Mediterranean-inspired dinner that comes together in just one pot. It is my go-to dish for busy evenings when I want something homemade without a mountain of dishes or prep work.
I first made this on a night when everyone was tired and hungry. Now it is my reliable solution for weeknight dinners when I need something everyone will actually eat and enjoy.
Ingredients
- Orzo pasta: Offers creamy texture in minutes choose a bronze cut or high-quality brand for the best mouthfeel
- Chicken broth: Infuses every bite with savory depth opt for a low-sodium version to control salt
- Diced chicken: Quick-cooking protein source use boneless skinless for ease and tenderness
- Frozen peas: Adds natural sweetness and color look for bright green peas with no freezer burn
- Juice of half a lemon: Brings freshness and balances richness always use fresh lemon for best flavor
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Creamy finishing touch grate your own for extra melt and smoothness
Instructions
- Simmer the Orzo and Chicken:
- Add the orzo chicken broth and diced chicken to a large pot. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally and watch to make sure the orzo does not stick to the pan. Keep simmering until the orzo is just tender and the chicken is cooked through. This takes about ten to twelve minutes. The starch from the orzo will begin to thicken the broth into a creamy sauce.
- Stir in Veggies and Finish:
- Add the frozen peas to the pot and stir thoroughly. Allow the peas to heat through for about two minutes. Squeeze in the lemon juice and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir constantly until the cheese has melted and the dish is creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust salt or lemon as needed before serving.
Save It My favorite ingredient is the lemon. A quick squeeze at the end wakes up all the flavors and brings lightness to this otherwise creamy dish. I still remember my younger brother asking for seconds with a grin the first time I added lemon just before serving. That memory is why I never skip it.
Storage Tips
This dish stores nicely in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating you may want to add a splash of broth or water since the orzo will absorb more liquid over time. Freezing leaves the orzo a little softer but it is still a convenient make-ahead option for lunches.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap in rotisserie chicken for even quicker prep. No lemon Use a dash of vinegar for brightness. If you like a sharper flavor try Pecorino Romano in place of Parmesan. You can also use vegetable broth to make it vegetarian just add a can of drained chickpeas or white beans for protein.
Serving Suggestions
Garnish bowls with extra Parmesan black pepper or a sprinkle of chopped herbs like parsley or basil. Serve this one pot meal with a crisp green salad and toasted bread to round out the dinner. Sometimes I add a few cherry tomatoes or spoonfuls of pesto for a flavor boost.
Cultural Context
Mediterranean cooking loves combining pasta with fresh flavors and creamy elements. Orzo is a tiny pasta shaped like rice common in Greece and Italy. This method of using one pot for both the pasta and sauce feels distinctly modern but fits right in with the region’s emphasis on easy comforting home cooking.
Seasonal Adaptations
Add baby spinach or arugula at the end during springtime for extra color Toss in diced roasted red peppers or sun dried tomatoes for winter richness Swap peas for fresh asparagus or zucchini if in season
Success Stories
One reader shared they made this with leftover Thanksgiving turkey instead of chicken and it was a surprise hit with their picky eaters. Several families enjoy it for school night dinners because it reheats so well and everyone loves the creamy texture.
Freezer Meal Conversion
For freezing assemble the entire dish and cool completely before packing into freezer containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly on the stovetop adding more broth to restore creaminess. I sometimes double the recipe so I have an easy meal for future me.
Save It This one pot chicken and orzo pasta is proof you can enjoy comfort food without the fuss. Try it tonight for a dinner that everyone will love.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I make it creamier?
Add a splash of cream or extra cheese just before serving to increase creaminess.
- → Can I use a different protein?
Yes, turkey or shrimp work well. Adjust cook time to ensure the protein is fully cooked.
- → Is it possible to add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers make great additions for flavor and color.
- → What can I use instead of Parmesan?
Pecorino Romano or Asiago provide a similar salty and nutty flavor profile.
- → How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?
Stir regularly and make sure there’s enough broth. Add extra liquid if necessary during cooking.