Delicious Chicken and Orzo Recipes for Every Occasion

In today’s fast-paced world, finding a meal that is both quick to prepare and delicious can be a challenge. Enter the One Pot Garlic Butter Chicken Orzo recipe, a culinary delight that promises to make dinner time both simple and spectacular. This dish, originating from the creative kitchen of How Sweet Eats, combines the rich flavors of golden chicken thighs and buttery orzo pasta, all cooked in a single pot to ensure that flavor is maximized while cleanup is minimized. It’s a perfect solution for those seeking a hearty meal without the hassle, offering a blend of tenderness, juiciness, and aromatic herbs that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds.

Not only does this Chicken and Orzo Recipes stand out for its ease of preparation, but it also shines in its versatility. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or preparing a meal for a special occasion, the Garlic Butter Chicken Orzo adapts beautifully, proving that gourmet taste doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. The combination of garlic butter with the subtle texture of orzo and the succulence of chicken thighs creates a dish that is comforting, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. Topped with fresh parsley and parmesan cheese, it’s a dish that looks as good as it tastes.

Each of these Chicken and Orzo Recipes showcases the versatility and appeal of chicken and orzo dishes, proving that you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to enjoy a meal that’s both delicious and satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a cooking novice, these recipes offer something for everyone, making dinner time a delightful experience.

One Pot Garlic Butter Chicken Orzo Recipe

This One Pot Garlic Butter Chicken Orzo recipe from How Sweet Eats is a simple yet incredibly flavorful weeknight meal that combines golden chicken thighs with buttery orzo, all cooked together in a single pot for maximum flavor and minimum cleanup. It’s a dish that promises tenderness, juiciness, and a delightful blend of flavors, topped with fresh herbs for an extra burst of freshness.

Ingredients:

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • Kosher salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 pound uncooked orzo
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 32 ounces chicken stock
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for finishing)
  • Chopped fresh parsley and parmesan cheese, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Heat 3 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden on both sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  2. Cook the Orzo: In the same skillet, add the orzo and minced garlic to the remaining butter or chicken drippings. Stir until the orzo is toasted and fragrant. Then, add the chicken stock.
  3. Combine and Cook: Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the orzo. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until the orzo is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
  4. Finish and Serve: Drizzle with additional melted butter and garnish with chopped parsley and parmesan cheese before serving.

This dish is celebrated for its ease of preparation, making it an ideal choice for a busy weeknight dinner. The combination of garlic butter, chicken, and orzo not only creates a rich and savory flavor but also ensures a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. The recipe emphasizes the versatility of orzo, pairing it perfectly with juicy chicken thighs for a meal that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.

For more details on this recipe and others, visit How Sweet Eats.

Creamy Chicken Orzo Recipe from The Modern Proper

The Creamy Chicken Orzo recipe by The Modern Proper is a comforting and simple dish that resembles risotto but is much easier to prepare. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner and can be made in just about 20 minutes if you have pre-cooked chicken, making it an ideal choice for a quick yet satisfying meal. This dish is flavored with basic vegetables and a hint of creaminess, offering a familiar and comforting taste.

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
  • 2 ribs celery, chopped (about 1 cup)
  • 2 large carrots, peeled and cut into 1/3-inch pieces (about 1 cup)
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 8 cups chicken stock
  • 2-3 cups shredded cooked chicken
  • 1 pound orzo
  • 1 tablespoon minced flat leaf parsley
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
  • 1¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, carrots, and ½ teaspoon of salt, cooking until the onion is translucent. Then, add the garlic and cook until fragrant.
  2. Cook the Orzo: Increase the heat to high, add the chicken stock, and bring to a boil. Stir in the chicken and orzo, reduce the heat to medium, and add the parsley, remaining salt, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and pepper.
  3. Simmer: Continue to simmer until the vegetables are tender, the orzo is creamy, and most of the liquid has been absorbed, about 20 minutes.

This Creamy Chicken Orzo is not only quick to make but also incredibly versatile, allowing for variations based on what you have on hand. It’s a dish that’s both forgiving and adaptable, making it a perfect addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. Serve it with some crusty bread for a complete meal that’s sure to comfort and satisfy.

For more delicious recipes and culinary inspiration, visit The Modern Proper.

Marry Me Chicken Orzo Recipe from Taming Twins

The Marry Me Chicken Orzo by Taming Twins is a delightful one-pot pasta recipe that combines the rich flavors of Tuscan-inspired chicken with the simplicity and comfort of orzo pasta. This dish is not only simple to make, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish, but it also keeps cleanup to a minimum by using only one pot. It’s the perfect meal for a romantic dinner or a cozy night in, offering a combination of creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan, and tender chicken that’s hard to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Ease and Simplicity: With straightforward ingredients and one-pot cooking, this recipe is both easy to make and to clean up after.
  • Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a fast way to deliver a flavorful and satisfying meal.
  • Complete Meal: Combining protein, pasta, and vegetables, this dish is a well-rounded meal all on its own.

Ingredients

  • 650g Chicken breast, skinless and boneless, chopped
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil (or oil from sun-dried tomatoes jar)
  • 3 Garlic cloves, peeled and crushed
  • 170g Sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), drained
  • 1 tsp Oregano
  • 2 tsp Paprika
  • 250g Orzo pasta
  • 650ml Chicken stock
  • 150ml Double cream
  • 50g Parmesan, grated
  • 120g Spinach
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook the Chicken: In a large, deep frying pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5 minutes until they start to color.
  2. Add Flavors: Reduce the heat and add garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and paprika. Stir for 3-5 minutes until the garlic is softened.
  3. Incorporate Orzo and Stock: Add the orzo, stock, and some pepper. Stir well, cover, and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is almost cooked.
  4. Finish with Spinach and Cream: Turn the heat to low, add the spinach and cream, and stir for 1-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the cream is heated through. Ensure the chicken is cooked through.
  5. Add Parmesan: Turn off the heat and stir in the parmesan cheese.

Tips and Substitutions

  • Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can also be used for a richer flavor but may require a longer cooking time.
  • Liquid: If the orzo absorbs all the liquid before it’s fully cooked, add a splash more water or stock as needed.

This Marry Me Chicken Orzo recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together to create a dish that’s both comforting and luxurious. The addition of spinach adds a fresh element that balances the richness of the cream and parmesan, making it a well-rounded dish that’s sure to impress.

For more delicious recipes and culinary inspiration, visit Taming Twins.

One Pot Lemon Chicken and Orzo Recipe from Damn Delicious

The One Pot Lemon Chicken and Orzo recipe by Damn Delicious is a perfect blend of golden brown, juicy chicken and creamy lemony orzo, all brought together in a single pot for convenience and flavor. This dish is an ideal weeknight meal, offering a comforting and creamy goodness with a zesty lemon twist that elevates the orzo and chicken to a delightful culinary experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simplicity and Convenience: Everything is cooked in one pot, which means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor infusion.
  • Versatile: You can easily substitute chicken thighs with breasts and choose your favorite greens to add to the dish.
  • Flavorful: The combination of fresh lemon, Parmesan, and tender greens with creamy orzo and chicken creates a balanced and refreshing meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 large shallots, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups chicken stock
  • 1 ½ teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 bunch kale (or other greens), stems removed and leaves torn
  • ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper. In a Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside.
  2. Sauté Shallots and Herbs: Add shallots to the pot and cook until tender. Stir in garlic, thyme, and rosemary until fragrant.
  3. Make the Sauce: Whisk in flour, then stir in chicken stock and Dijon mustard. Add orzo, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil. Simmer until the pasta is cooked through.
  4. Add Greens and Cream: Stir in kale, Parmesan, heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest until the kale has wilted. Return the chicken to the pot.
  5. Serve: Enjoy this creamy, lemony dish immediately, perfect with a side of crusty bread.

Tips and Substitutions

  • Chicken Choice: While chicken thighs are recommended for their juiciness, chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option.
  • Herb Variations: If rosemary isn’t your favorite, feel free to substitute with oregano or any herb you prefer, adjusting the quantity if using dried herbs.
  • Cream Alternatives: Heavy cream provides richness, but half-and-half or whole milk can be used for a lighter version of the sauce.

This One Pot Lemon Chicken and Orzo recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients coming together in a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated. With its creamy texture, vibrant flavors, and ease of preparation, it’s certain to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

For more delicious recipes and culinary inspiration, visit Damn Delicious.

Spinach and Feta Chicken Orzo recipe

The Spinach and Feta Chicken Orzo recipe is a delightful blend of Mediterranean flavors, combining tender chicken, creamy orzo pasta, fresh spinach, tangy feta cheese, and the rich taste of sun-dried tomatoes. This dish is perfect for those seeking a nutritious and satisfying meal that can be prepared quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend dinners.

Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces orzo pasta
  • 2 chicken bouillon cubes (for the orzo cooking liquid) or vegetable bouillon cubes
  • 1 oven-roasted deli chicken
  • 3 cups fresh baby spinach (regular spinach works if baby spinach is unavailable)
  • 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 large tomato, diced (or 1 1/2 cups halved grape tomatoes)
  • 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted (reserve some brine if using high-quality olives)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons reserved olive brine (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon capers (optional)
  • Fresh ground pepper, to taste

Directions:

  1. Cook Orzo: Bring a large pot of water to boil with the bouillon cubes. Add orzo and cook according to package directions, about 10 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.
  2. Combine Ingredients: Stir in all other ingredients into the pot with the cooked orzo. Cook over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes to heat everything through.
  3. Serve: Enjoy this dish warm, at room temperature, or cold, making it versatile for any season or occasion.

Tips:

  • If you prefer using only white meat from the chicken, you may need two rotisserie chickens to ensure there’s enough meat, especially if the chickens are small. Reserve the dark meat for another use.
  • For those sensitive to salt, omit the bouillon cubes and olive brine, though they add a nice flavor depth to the dish.
  • This recipe is great for brown-bagging as it tastes good at any temperature.

This Spinach and Feta Chicken Orzo is a testament to the simplicity and beauty of Mediterranean cooking, offering a balanced meal that’s both flavorful and easy to prepare. The combination of creamy feta, tangy olives, and fresh spinach with the hearty texture of orzo and chicken creates a dish that’s sure to please any palate.

Tomato Orzo with Basil Chicken Recipe

The Tomato Orzo with Basil Chicken recipe is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of tomato-infused orzo pasta with succulent basil-seasoned chicken. This recipe, featured on SideChef, is an easy-to-make, one-pot meal that promises a burst of incredible flavors, making it a perfect choice for a hearty family dinner or a special weekend meal. The combination of cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy feta cheese with the orzo and chicken creates a Mediterranean-inspired dish that is both satisfying and nutritious.

Ingredients:

  • 0.25 lb Boneless, Skin-On Chicken Thighs, cleaned and patted dry
  • 1 tsp Dried Basil
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1 Tbsp Olive Oil, divided
  • 1 Tbsp Unsalted Butter
  • 2 1/4 cups Cherry Tomatoes
  • 2 2/3 cups Orzo Pasta
  • 7 cups Chicken Broth
  • 2 sprigs Fresh Basil Leaves, roughly chopped (plus more for garnish)
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp Italian Seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
  • 1 Lemon (1 tsp of zest needed)
  • 3/4 cup Feta Cheese
  • Salt, to taste
  • Ground Black Pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken thighs with dried basil, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Poke some holes in the meat with a fork and rub the seasoning around the chicken.
  2. Cook the Chicken: In a pan, heat unsalted butter and half of the olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken skin side down until golden brown and cooked through, then set aside.
  3. Cook the Tomatoes: In the same pan, add the remaining olive oil and cherry tomatoes, cooking until partially broken down.
  4. Cook the Orzo: In a stockpot with boiling chicken broth, cook the orzo pasta for about 5 minutes, then drain. Reserve some pasta water for later use if needed.
  5. Combine Ingredients: To the pan with tomatoes, add fresh basil, garlic, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  6. Final Steps: Stir in the cooked orzo, return the chicken to the pan, and heat up for about 3 minutes.
  7. Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with basil, and serve with feta cheese.

This Tomato Orzo with Basil Chicken recipe is a testament to the simplicity of ingredients coming together to create a dish full of depth and flavor. The creamy texture of the orzo, combined with the tangy tomatoes and the richness of the chicken, makes for a meal that is both comforting and refreshing. Perfect for any season, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

For more delicious recipes visit maya’s recipes.

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