I made this dish earlier this week, and it instantly became a household favorite! The combination of creamy basil pesto sauce, tender chicken, and plump orzo comes together beautifully in just one pan.
I love how simple it is to prepare while still managing to feel like a restaurant-quality meal. This recipe saves me so much time on hectic evenings, but it’s also cozy and luscious enough for a special dinner.
Credit: juliasalbum
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need for this easy and delicious chicken orzo recipe. Each ingredient plays a key role, so don’t skip any!
- 1.5 lbs chicken breasts (skinless, boneless): Slice them thinly for even cooking.
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta: This rice-shaped pasta soaks up all the flavors beautifully.
- 5 oz fresh spinach: Stick to fresh leaves as frozen spinach can be watery. Wilted to perfection in the skillet.
- 10 oz cherry tomatoes (halved): I recommend fresh cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness.
- 5 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic adds an irreplaceable aroma.
- 2 cups chicken stock: Use quality stock for a flavorful orzo base.
- ½ cup heavy cream: This gives the dish its signature creamy texture. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option.
- ¼ cup basil pesto: Store-bought works fine, but homemade takes it to another level.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided): Perfect for searing the chicken and sautéing the orzo.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (for the chicken): These seasonings add a warm depth of flavor.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste): Always season at every step for well-rounded flavor.
Note: This recipe serves four generous portions. Adjust the ingredients accordingly for more or fewer servings.
Variations
Looking to adapt this recipe to dietary needs or preferences? Here are some ideas:
- For a dairy-free version: Swap the heavy cream for unsweetened coconut milk or cashew cream.
- For extra vegetables: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes to the mix.
- Switch the protein: Use shrimp, sausage, or even salmon if you’re not in the mood for chicken.
- Gluten-free option: Substitute orzo with a gluten-free pasta alternative.
- Cheesy twist: Top with grated Parmesan or Asiago cheese for even more indulgence.
If you’re looking for another unique way to serve chicken, try the Skinny Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Spaghetti Squash for a low-carb twist.
Cooking Time
Here’s how the time breaks down for this recipe:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Equipment You Need
Gather these tools to make the process seamless:
- Large, high-sided skillet: To cook everything in one pan and avoid spillage.
- Sharp knife: For slicing the chicken and halving the tomatoes.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Essential for stirring without scratching your skillet.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To achieve accurate ratios for the ingredients.
How to Make 30-Minute One-Pan Creamy Chicken Orzo?
This dish comes together quickly and easily with these steps. Each stage builds flavor and adds layers of deliciousness.
Sear the chicken
First, slice your chicken breasts into thin strips. Season generously with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium heat and add the chicken. Cook for 3 minutes on each side until golden brown, then remove to a plate.
Toast the orzo
Using the same skillet, add the uncooked orzo, minced garlic, and a tablespoon of olive oil. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the orzo begins to turn golden. This step prevents the orzo from becoming mushy later.
Cook the orzo
Pour in the chicken stock, half the cherry tomatoes, and a pinch of salt. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The orzo will absorb the stock’s flavor as it cooks.
Add spinach and tomatoes
Once the orzo is tender, toss in the remaining cherry tomatoes and the fresh spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts. This only takes about 1-2 minutes.
Stir in cream and pesto
Lower the heat and mix in the heavy cream and basil pesto. These ingredients will create a velvety sauce that brings everything together. If necessary, season with additional salt and pepper.
Combine and serve
Finally, return the cooked chicken to the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes until heated through. The sauce will coat the chicken perfectly. Give everything a final stir and serve immediately.
Credit: juliasalbum
Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better
From my experience, here are some extra tips to make this recipe truly shine:
- Sear properly: Ensure your pan is hot enough before adding the chicken. This gives it a lovely golden crust.
- Stir often: When cooking the orzo, keep an eye on it and stir frequently to prevent sticking.
- Adjust the sauce consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken stock or cream to loosen it.
- Optimize leftovers: This dish heats up beautifully, so don’t worry if you have extras for lunch the next day.
How to Serve 30-Minute One-Pan Creamy Chicken Orzo?
Presentation matters just as much as flavor! Here’s how I like to serve this dish:
- On a large serving platter: This showcases all the beautiful colors of the orzo, chicken, tomatoes, and spinach.
- Garnished with fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped basil or parsley for a pop of green.
- With crusty bread: Serve alongside crunchy garlic bread or a simple baguette to scoop up the extra sauce.
If you enjoy hearty chicken dishes, you can also enjoy similar recipes like Alabama White Blackened Chicken Sliders.
Nutritional Information
This filling, balanced dish is packed with protein, carbs, and creamy goodness. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 659
- Protein: 48g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 34g
Make Ahead and Storage
Sometimes, life gets busy, but this dish is perfect for prepping in advance or storing leftovers.
- Restoring: It tastes just as good when reheated. Simply add a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce.
- Freezing: Avoid freezing, as the creamy sauce can separate when thawed.
- Refrigerating: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This dish will undoubtedly become part of your regular dinner rotation. Here’s why:
- Quick and convenient: It’s ready in just 30 minutes using one pan.
- Customizable: You can switch up the proteins, veggies, and even the sauce.
- Comforting yet elevated: Creamy, hearty, and restaurant-worthy!
- Minimal cleanup: Fewer dishes mean more time to relax after dinner.
- Family-friendly: It’s a hit with kids and adults alike.
Give this 30-Minute One-Pan Creamy Chicken Orzo recipe a try for a wholesome, fuss-free, and absolutely irresistible meal. Your taste buds (and your family) will thank you! For more creative chicken recipes, check out our collection of Chicken Recipes.