One-Pot Chicken Orzo

Name: One-Pot Chicken Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 cup orzo pasta; 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup bell peppers, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 tsp dried oregano; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: December 5, 2025

by Clara Harper

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This easy one-pot chicken orzo recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without much fuss.
The flavors blend beautifully while cooking together in one pot.
Enjoy a colorful meal that looks as good as it tastes without hours of cleanup afterward.
Ideal for picky eaters since you can mix in any veggies you have on hand!

Everyone raved about how delicious it was!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: Use thighs for their moist texture; they won’t dry out as easily as breasts.
Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta shape cooks quickly and absorbs all the amazing flavors from the broth.
Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control salt levels while still packing in flavor.
Fresh Spinach: Adds vibrant color and nutrients; toss it in at the end for a fresh taste.
Bell Peppers: Choose your favorite colors for a visually appealing dish; they add sweetness and crunch.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses the dish with an irresistible aroma; don’t skimp on this one!
Onion: A yellow onion works best here; sauté until soft to enhance its natural sweetness.
Dried Oregano: This herb brings Mediterranean flair to your dish; it’s essential for flavor depth.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing and to elevate the overall taste of your meal.
Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens everything up beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent—about 3-5 minutes.

Add the Chicken: Toss in boneless chicken thighs, seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until browned on both sides—about 5 minutes each side should do it.

Mix in Veggies: Stir in chopped bell peppers and dried oregano. Cook until peppers soften slightly—around 3-4 minutes will add great flavor.

Add Orzo and Broth: Pour in orzo pasta along with chicken broth. Bring to a boil before reducing heat to low. Cover tightly and simmer for about 10 minutes.

Add Spinach: Once orzo is al dente and liquid is absorbed, stir in fresh spinach until wilted—this takes only about 1-2 minutes!

Finish with Lemon Juice: Remove from heat, then squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top before serving. This adds brightness that ties everything together beautifully!

Cooking should be fun and stress-free! Enjoy your One-Pot Chicken Orzo surrounded by friends or family—it’s sure to become a beloved staple at your table!

You Must Know

One-Pot Chicken Orzo is not just about cooking; it’s about creating a cozy atmosphere.
The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone begging for seconds.
Plus, fewer dishes mean more time for dessert, and who doesn’t love that?

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then remove it. Next, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant, followed by adding orzo and broth while returning chicken to simmer until cooked through.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what’s in season or add some spinach for color. You can also experiment with spices like smoked paprika or Italian herbs for an extra flavor punch.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm on low heat on the stove, adding a splash of water if necessary to revive creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

When cooking chicken, always allow it to rest before slicing; this keeps it juicy.
Don’t skip scraping up those delightful browned bits from the bottom of the pot—they’re flavor gold!
Lastly, consider using homemade chicken stock for richer flavor in your One-Pot Chicken Orzo.

One time, I made this dish for a friend’s birthday dinner, and everyone went back for seconds! It was heartwarming to see everyone enjoy something I made with care.

FAQ

Can I make One-Pot Chicken Orzo ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it earlier; just reheat gently before serving.

What can I substitute for orzo?

You can replace orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love its creamy texture and flavorful chicken—perfect family meal!

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