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One Pot Chicken Orzo

This easy, creamy One Pot Chicken Orzo is rich, flavorful, and packed with tender chicken, asparagus, spinach, and Parmesan—all made in one pan for quick cleanup.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 2 cup servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 546
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders, cubed into 1” pieces
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1/2 cup diced yellow onion (about 1/2 a medium onion)
  • 2 cups chopped fresh asparagus spears, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
  • 8 ounces dry orzo
  • 2 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 1/3 cup half and half (or milk)
  • 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • Chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan for garnish

Equipment

  • Large high-sided skillet or sauté pan
  • Cutting Board
  • Chef’s Knife
  • wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. In a small bowl, toss chicken with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large high-sided pan over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 10–12 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
  3. Add remaining tablespoon olive oil to the same pan. Sauté asparagus for 2 minutes until tender-crisp. Remove and set aside with chicken.
  4. Add onion to the pan and sauté 3 minutes until softened. Stir in orzo and garlic, toasting for 3 minutes.
  5. Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Cover and cook 7 minutes until most liquid is absorbed, stirring halfway.
  6. Stir in chicken, asparagus, half and half, Parmesan, spinach, and thyme. Heat 1–2 minutes until spinach wilts.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley and extra Parmesan.

Notes

Best enjoyed fresh as leftovers can dry out. Store in an airtight container in the fridge up to 5 days. Reheat gently with extra broth to restore creaminess. You can swap in chicken thighs or pre-cooked chicken to save time. Add your favorite veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for variety.