chicken with orzo recipe

chicken with orzo recipe

The Best chicken with orzo recipe

I’m so excited to share this chicken with orzo recipe with you all. I’ve been making it for years, and it’s a staple in our household. My family loves it, and it’s perfect for any occasion.

The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. The dish originated in Greece, where orzo is a staple grain. The combination of chicken, orzo, and vegetables creates a hearty and satisfying meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

I like to serve it with a side of steamed broccoli or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal. The key to this recipe is cooking the orzo until it’s tender but still slightly firm in the center. This helps it retain its texture and prevents it from becoming mushy.

I also like to add some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill to give the dish a bright and refreshing flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this chicken with orzo recipe is sure to hit the spot. I’ve served it at countless family gatherings and parties, and it’s always been a hit.

The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to scale up or down depending on your needs, so whether you’re feeding a crowd of 10 or just a few close friends, this recipe has got you covered.

Chicken with Orzo

Chicken with Orzo

4.9 from 1617 votes

A comforting dish featuring tender chicken and orzo pasta in a flavorful tomato sauce, perfect for a family dinner. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken and Orzo

1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 cup orzo pasta
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and oregano.
2Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
4Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
5Reduce heat to medium.
6In the same skillet, add onion and garlic.
7Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
8Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and basil.
9Stir well to combine.
10Bring to a simmer.
11Add orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring to coat in the sauce.
12Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is almost cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.
13Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the orzo mixture.
14Cover and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the orzo is tender.
15The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
16Remove from heat and let it rest for 2-3 minutes.
17Serve the chicken with orzo hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

🔧Equipment

Skillet with lid
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 73mg🧂Sodium: 650mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

Tips: Add some vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. You can also use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a more flavorful dish.

I always recommend making extra servings of this chicken with orzo recipe because it reheats beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.

When reheating, simply cook the chicken and orzo together until heated through, adding some chopped fresh herbs if desired for added flavor.

This makes for an easy lunch or dinner option during the week when you’re short on time.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken with Orzo

1. What is orzo?

Orzo is a type of pasta that’s similar to rice but made from wheat flour. It’s commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine and has a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with chicken and vegetables.

2. Can I use different types of pasta instead of orzo?

While you can use other types of pasta in place of orzo, keep in mind that the texture and flavor will be slightly different. Orzo has a unique texture that holds up well to being cooked with chicken and vegetables.

3. How long does this recipe take to prepare?

This recipe is quick and easy to prepare, taking about 30 minutes from start to finish.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time by cooking the chicken and orzo separately and then combining them just before serving.

5. Is this recipe healthy?

This recipe is relatively healthy due to the use of lean protein (chicken), whole grains (orzo), and plenty of vegetables.

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