One Pot Chicken Orzo (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Chicken and Seasoning
01 -
1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders, cubed into 1-inch pieces
02 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
03 -
1/4 teaspoon salt
04 -
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
05 -
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
→ Cooking Base and Flavoring
06 -
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
07 -
1/2 cup yellow onion, chopped (about 1/2 medium onion)
08 -
2 cups fresh asparagus spears, cut into 1-inch pieces
09 -
1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 garlic cloves)
10 -
8 ounces dry orzo
11 -
2 1/2 cups chicken broth (low or no salt preferred)
12 -
2 sprigs fresh thyme or 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
13 -
1/3 cup half and half or milk
14 -
1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan
15 -
2 cups fresh spinach
16 -
Chopped fresh parsley and extra parmesan for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
In a small bowl, combine chicken chunks, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toss to coat.
02 -
In a large high-sided pan over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and add the chicken. Cook for 10-12 minutes, until browned on all sides. Remove from the pan and set aside in a bowl.
03 -
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the asparagus and sauté for 2 minutes, until tender but still crisp. Remove from the pan and set aside with the cooked chicken.
04 -
Add the onion to the pan and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the orzo and minced garlic, cooking until the orzo starts to toast slightly, about 3 minutes.
05 -
Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally and scraping the bottom of the pan. Cover with a lid and cook for 7 minutes, or until most of the liquid has been absorbed, stirring halfway through.
06 -
Stir in the cooked chicken, asparagus, half and half, parmesan, spinach, and thyme. Heat for 1-2 minutes until warmed through and spinach is wilted.
07 -
Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and extra grated parmesan.
# Notes:
01 -
For best results, this dish is best eaten fresh. Leftovers may be less creamy and drier; reheat with extra broth to restore consistency.
02 -
Different orzo brands may vary in cooking time. Select orzo with a 7-9 minute cook time for best results.
03 -
Chicken thighs can be substituted for chicken breasts, but cooking time may vary.
04 -
Additional vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms can be used for variation.
05 -
Vegetable broth can replace chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly option.