There’s something magical about a dish that delivers gourmet flavor with minimal effort and cleanup. One Pot Chicken Orzo is that kind of recipe—simple, satisfying, and perfect for any night of the week. Tender chicken, creamy orzo, and vibrant vegetables come together in a single pot to create a dish that feels both comforting and elevated.

I first made this dish on a hectic weeknight when I wanted something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Since then, it’s become a household favorite, gracing our table at least once a week.
Why You'll Love This One Pot Chicken Orzo Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with your new weeknight dinner staple. One Pot Chicken Orzo checks all the boxes for an easy and delicious meal.
First off, it’s a true one-pot wonder. That means fewer dishes to wash and more time to relax after dinner. Everything cooks in the same pot, making it as convenient as it is tasty.
The combination of flavors is absolutely irresistible. Juicy chicken, velvety orzo, and a medley of fresh herbs and veggies create a dish that’s rich, savory, and comforting.
It’s also quick and easy. This recipe takes only 30-40 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu dinner plans.
Lastly, it’s endlessly versatile. Whether you want to swap out the vegetables or add a splash of cream for extra indulgence, this recipe adapts beautifully to your preferences.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays an important role in building layers of flavor.
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are perfect for this recipe because they stay juicy and flavorful. However, chicken breasts work well, too—just be careful not to overcook them.
- Orzo: This rice-shaped pasta is the star of the dish. It cooks quickly and absorbs all the savory flavors from the broth, making it delightfully creamy.
- Chicken Broth: The base of the dish’s flavor comes from chicken broth. Use low-sodium broth to control the salt level, and feel free to substitute vegetable broth if needed.
- Vegetables: Diced onions, garlic, and spinach add both flavor and nutrition. You can swap spinach for kale or add diced carrots and celery for extra heartiness.
- Lemon: A splash of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish and ties all the flavors together. It’s the perfect finishing touch.
- Herbs and Seasonings: Fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, and a touch of oregano elevate the dish, while salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes provide balance and a little kick.
You’ll also need a large skillet or Dutch oven with a lid to make this recipe a breeze.
How To Make One Pot Chicken Orzo

Making One Pot Chicken Orzo is surprisingly easy, and the results are restaurant-quality. Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. If you like extra veggies, now’s the time to add diced carrots or celery.
Step 3: Toast the Orzo
Stir in 1 cup of orzo and let it toast lightly for about 1-2 minutes. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the pasta and sets the stage for a creamy texture.
Step 4: Add Liquid and Cook
Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Nestle the chicken back into the skillet, cover with a lid, and reduce the heat to low. Let everything cook for 15-18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
Step 5: Add Spinach and Lemon
Once the orzo is done, stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach and let it wilt. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. For extra creaminess, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Serve warm, garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
Storage Options
This dish stores well, making it great for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors only get better as they sit!
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that orzo may absorb more liquid during freezing, so add a splash of broth when reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, and adding a bit of broth or water to loosen the consistency. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.
Variations and Substitutions
The beauty of One Pot Chicken Orzo is its versatility. Here are some ways to adapt the recipe to suit your taste:
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and add more veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese for a richer, creamier dish.
- Spicy Option: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Sprinkle shredded Parmesan or feta cheese over the dish just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
- Herb Swap: Experiment with fresh basil or dill instead of parsley and thyme for a different flavor profile.
One Pot Chicken Orzo is more than just a meal—it’s a lifesaver on busy nights and a comfort food classic you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re feeding a family or cooking for yourself, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. So grab your skillet, and let’s make magic happen!
PrintOne Pot Chicken Orzo Recipe
This One Pot Chicken Orzo Recipe is a perfect blend of juicy chicken, tender orzo, and fresh vegetables. A quick, easy, and flavorful weeknight dinner that's made in one pan for minimal cleanup.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pot Cooking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb chicken thighs or breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté onion and red bell pepper until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in the orzo, letting it toast slightly for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Add oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Return the chicken to the skillet. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and top with fresh parsley. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
- Substitute spinach or kale for extra veggies.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth if needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ of recipe
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
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