This one pot chicken orzo is your weeknight dinner rescue mission. It’s cozy, full of flavor, and only needs one pot to make magic happen. I mean, who really wants to do more dishes after work? We’ve got tender chicken, creamy orzo, and those comforting herbs that just wrap around your soul like your favorite blanket. Whether you’re feeding the family or cooking for one with leftovers for later, this dish has your back. If you’ve never tried One Pot Orzo Recipes before, this is the one to start with. It ticks all the boxes: One Pot Chicken Orzo Recipes, One Pot Chicken And Orzo, Orzo One Pot Recipes, One Pot Orzo, and Orzo One Pot Meals. This one does it all.

Table of Contents
- 1) Key Takeaways
- 2) Easy One Pot Chicken Orzo Recipe
- 3) Ingredients for One Pot Chicken Orzo
- 4) How to Make One Pot Chicken Orzo
- 5) Tips for Making One Pot Chicken Orzo
- 6) Making One Pot Chicken Orzo Ahead of Time
- 7) Storing Leftover One Pot Chicken Orzo
- 8) Try these One Pot recipes next!
- 9) One Pot Chicken Orzo Recipe
- 10) Nutrition
1) Key Takeaways
- One pot chicken orzo is quick, flavorful, and made with minimal cleanup.
- It brings together tender chicken, creamy orzo, and comforting herbs in one dish.
- This dish fits perfectly with one pot orzo recipes for busy weeknights or meal prep.
2) Easy One Pot Chicken Orzo Recipe
Let’s be honest. When you hear “one pot,” your brain probably says, “Ah, finally, less mess!” Same here. That’s the whole point of this creamy, savory one pot chicken orzo recipe. It saves time, it saves dishes, and best of all, it doesn’t skimp on flavor.
I like meals that work hard without feeling complicated. This one hits that sweet spot. The orzo soaks up the flavors from the broth and herbs while the chicken becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender. Each bite is warm, cheesy, and just a little bit lemony.
Whether you’ve made one pot chicken and orzo before or this is your first attempt at orzo one pot recipes, I’ve got you covered. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll be searching for more one pot orzo meals to try next.

3) Ingredients for One Pot Chicken Orzo
Olive Oil: A couple of tablespoons get things started with a little sizzle and a whole lot of flavor. Use a good one if you can.
Boneless Chicken Thighs: Tender and juicy, these cook quickly and stay flavorful. I prefer thighs, but breasts work too.
Salt and Pepper: These two pull their weight here. Don’t be shy with the seasoning. The orzo will thank you.
Chopped Onion: This gives you a sweet, mellow base. Let it go until it’s soft but not brown.
Minced Garlic: A must-have for a little bite. It turns the flavor up in the best way.
Orzo Pasta: It looks like rice but cooks like pasta. Perfect for soaking up all that chicken flavor in the pot.
Chicken Broth: This adds depth and gives the orzo something tasty to soak into. Go low-sodium if that’s your thing.
Heavy Cream: Just enough to make it feel rich and comforting without going overboard.
Grated Parmesan: This gives a salty, nutty boost that makes everything else shine.
Dried Thyme and Oregano: Just a teaspoon each, but they lift the whole dish up. Smells amazing too.
Fresh Spinach: Optional, but it adds a bit of green and makes us feel a little healthier, right?
Lemon Juice: Squeeze it in at the end. It wakes everything up with a fresh, citrusy finish.

4) How to Make One Pot Chicken Orzo
Step 1. Warm the olive oil in a big pot over medium heat. Toss in the chicken, season well, and cook until browned on both sides. Take it out and set it aside for now.
Step 2. Add the chopped onion to the same pot. Let it get soft and sweet. Then toss in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it smells amazing.
Step 3. Stir in the orzo. Let it toast a bit, just for a minute or so. You want it golden and nutty-smelling.
Step 4. Pour in the broth, cream, thyme, and oregano. Stir gently. Slide the chicken back in and let everything come to a simmer.
Step 5. Cover the pot. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes. Stir now and then so the orzo doesn’t stick. It should be tender and creamy.
Step 6. Stir in the Parmesan, lemon juice, and spinach. Let it all come together. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed.

5) Tips for Making One Pot Chicken Orzo
Cook the orzo just until it’s tender. It cooks fast and can get mushy if you walk away. I keep a close eye during the last few minutes.
Use chicken thighs for more flavor and tenderness, but chicken breast works fine if that’s what you have. Just don’t overcook it early on.
If you like it creamier, add an extra splash of broth at the end. The orzo will thicken as it cools, so loosen it up right before serving.
6) Making One Pot Chicken Orzo Ahead of Time
You can absolutely make this ahead. Cook it through, then let it cool. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
When you’re ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water. Stir well as it warms up so it doesn’t clump.
This dish holds up well for a few days. The flavors even deepen a bit overnight, which I personally love.
7) Storing Leftover One Pot Chicken Orzo
Keep leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge. It stays good for up to three or four days.
Reheat it in a pan with a little broth or cream to bring back the creaminess. Microwave works too in a pinch.
If it gets too thick, don’t panic. Stir in liquid slowly until it softens up again.
8) Try these One Pot recipes next!
9) One Pot Chicken Orzo Recipe

One Pot Chicken Orzo – Comforting One Pot Orzo Recipes Made Easy
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
- Juice of half a lemon
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté the onion until soft, then add garlic and cook another 30 seconds.
- Pour in orzo and toast for 1 minute, stirring often.
- Add chicken broth, cream, thyme, and oregano. Stir to combine.
- Return chicken to the pot. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender.
- Stir in Parmesan, spinach (if using), and lemon juice. Cook until spinach wilts.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve warm with extra Parmesan if you’re feeling cheesy.
10) Nutrition
Serving Size: 1 plate, Calories: 460, Sugar: 3 g, Sodium: 590 mg, Fat: 22 g, Saturated Fat: 9 g, Carbohydrates: 38 g, Fiber: 2 g, Protein: 28 g, Cholesterol: 85 mg



Leave a Comment