One Pot Cheesy Chicken And Orzo Recipe

Omg, you all have to try this One Pot Cheesy Chicken and Orzo dish—it’s ridiculously easy and totally delish! It’s got all the cozy vibes thanks to that creamy, cheesy goodness, and you’ll only have one pot to clean up after, which, like, leaves more time for Netflix!

I enjoy a meal that is comforting yet comes together in a snap, and my One Pot Cheesy Chicken and Orzo is just that. With tender chicken, punchy garlic, and chewy orzo, this dish is rich in flavor and coziness.

The creamy texture, courtesy of mozzarella and Parmesan, is complemented by the peas and parsley. This dish is packed with protein, and it feels indulgent yet is wholesome and good for you.

One Pot Cheesy Chicken And Orzo Recipe Ingredients

One Pot Cheesy Chicken And Orzo Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves

How to Make this One Pot Cheesy Chicken And Orzo Recipe

1. In a large saucepan or deep skillet, warm the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, sprinkle them with salt and freshly ground black pepper, and cook until they are browned all over, about 5-7 minutes. Use tongs to transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

2. In the same saucepan, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Add the raw orzo pasta and the Italian seasoning, making sure to coat the orzo with the oil and garlic and stir for about 2 minutes.

4. Add the chicken broth to the pot, then add the chicken pieces back to the pot. Heat until the mixture comes to a boil.

5. Lower the heat to medium-low, place the lid on the pot, and allow it to simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked to tenderness and the chicken is done. (If one prefers the orzo a bit firmer, cooking it for 10 minutes should suffice.)

6. Incorporate the heavy cream and frozen peas. Allow them to cook for another 2-3 minutes until they are heated through.

7. Include the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, and stir them into the mixture until they have melted and you have a creamy result.

8. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

9. Take off the heat and let it rest for a few minutes to permit the flavors to meld.

10. Before serving, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley leaves. Savor your One Pot Cheesy Chicken and Orzo!

One Pot Cheesy Chicken And Orzo Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large saucepan or deep skillet with lid
2. Kitchen tongs
3. Measuring spoons
4. Measuring cups
5. Cutting board
6. Chef’s knife
7. Wooden spoon or spatula
8. Grater (for Parmesan cheese, if not pre-grated)

FAQ

• Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
  Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts. They provide a richer flavor and may be more tender.
• What can I substitute for heavy cream?
  You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter as a lighter alternative to heavy cream.
• Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
  Yes, you can substitute the chicken with chickpeas or more vegetables, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
  Absolutely! Vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms would be great additions to this dish.
• How should leftovers be stored?
  Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
• Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
  Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time, but it’s best served fresh. If made in advance, add a splash of broth while reheating to maintain moisture.
• Can I use a different type of cheese?
  Certainly, different cheeses like cheddar or provolone can be used to suit your taste preference.

One Pot Cheesy Chicken And Orzo Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Avocado oil or canola oil can be used as a substitute for olive oil.
Breasts of chicken: Use boneless, skinless thighs of chicken.
Thick cream: Use half-and-half, or for a dairy-free option, use coconut milk.
Substitute cheddar cheese or provolone cheese for mozzarella cheese.
Parmesan cheese: Substitute with Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano.

Pro Tips

1. Pre-marinade the Chicken For an extra layer of flavor, try marinating the chicken pieces in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and a dash of Italian seasoning for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will enhance the taste and tenderness of the chicken.

2. Toast the Orzo Before adding the chicken broth, take a moment to toast the orzo in the pan with the garlic and oil. This step adds a nutty depth to the pasta, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

3. Flavor Boost with Lemon Zest Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dish along with the heavy cream and peas. The zest will brighten the flavors and complement the richness of the cheese and cream.

4. Broil for a Crispy Top After stirring in the cheeses, consider transferring the mixture to an oven-safe dish and broiling it briefly on high heat to achieve a crispy, golden cheese crust on top.

5. Herbaceous Kick Incorporate some fresh herbs like basil or thyme along with the parsley at the end. They add a fresh, aromatic kick and elevate the flavors, making the dish more vibrant.