One Pot Creamy Chicken And Orzo

Name: One Pot Creamy Chicken And Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced; 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup spinach; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Basic Quick Meals Collection

I love how comforting this One Pot Creamy Chicken And Orzo dish is. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked orzo comes together beautifully, creating a meal that feels indulgent yet is quick to prepare. With just one pot, cleanup is a breeze, making it a staple in my weeknight dinner rotation. The hint of garlic and the subtle zest from the lemon truly elevate the flavors, making each bite a delightful treat for the senses. Trust me, this dish is one you'll want to share with family and friends.

Created by

Marlowe Sinclair

Last updated on 2026-02-10T22:09:36.249Z

When I first tried making One Pot Creamy Chicken And Orzo, I was surprised by how quickly everything came together. I started with sautéing garlic and onions, which created an aroma that filled my kitchen. The addition of orzo and chicken simmering in broth and cream produced a rich, satisfying dish that I couldn't resist.

One tip I can share is to let the dish sit for a few minutes after it’s done cooking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and the orzo absorbs extra creaminess. Trust me, waiting just a little longer makes all the difference!

You'll Love This Recipe Because
Rich and creamy sauce that comforts the soul
One-pot clean-up makes it perfect for busy weeknights
Packed with flavors that the whole family will enjoy

The Creamy Sauce Explained

The rich and creamy sauce in this One Pot Creamy Chicken And Orzo is the star of the dish, bringing together flavors that comfort the soul. The combination of heavy cream and chicken broth creates a luscious base, while the lemon juice adds brightness that cuts through the richness. You’ll want to ensure that the cream is mixed thoroughly, as this helps achieve that glossy, velvety consistency that enwraps the orzo and chicken beautifully.

When adding cream, make sure to lower the heat to prevent it from boiling, which can cause it to separate. This technique ensures a smooth sauce that clings lovingly to the orzo. If you’re seeking an alternative, a dairy-free cream can be used; however, keep in mind that it may alter the final texture and taste slightly.

Ingredient Roles and Substitutions

Every ingredient in this dish plays a key role in achieving a balanced flavor profile. For instance, the diced chicken acts as the protein anchor, providing heartiness, while the onion and garlic deliver foundational aromatics that lift the dish. If you're in a pinch, boneless, skinless thighs can substitute for chicken breasts, giving a richer flavor due to their fat content.

Spinach not only adds vibrant color but also packs in nutrients. If spinach isn’t available, kale or even frozen peas can work well. Just keep in mind that wilted spinach offers a different texture compared to firmer greens, so adjust cooking times accordingly.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This One Pot Creamy Chicken And Orzo is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the entire dish in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to reheat, do so on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore creaminess as orzo tends to absorb liquid when stored.

If you want to make it ahead for freezing, allow the dish to cool, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be kept frozen for up to three months. Do note that reheating may lead to a slightly creamier texture, so be prepared to stir in some additional broth or cream to achieve the desired consistency when serving.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for an easy, delicious dinner:

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
1 cup orzo pasta
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup spinach
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
Parmesan cheese for serving

Ensure everything is ready before you start cooking for a smooth process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your dish:

Sauté the Chicken

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Aromatics

Add onion and garlic, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.

Combine Orzo and Broth

Stir in the orzo and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Finish with Cream and Spinach

Once orzo is tender, mix in heavy cream, spinach, and lemon juice. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until spinach wilts.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm, garnished with Parmesan cheese. Enjoy the comforting flavors!

Don't forget to adjust seasoning to your taste before serving.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider sautéing some mushrooms or bell peppers along with the onions. This can enhance the dish even more!

Serving Suggestions

This dish is versatile enough to be served on its own or combined with some fresh sides. A light arugula salad drizzled with olive oil and lemon is a refreshing choice that complements the creamy orzo beautifully. Additionally, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

For a touch of elegance, consider garnishing the dish with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil right before serving. This not only adds a burst of color but enhances the flavor profile with herbal notes, creating a more refined dining experience.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Adding roasted red peppers can introduce a sweet, smoky flavor that contrasts nicely with the creaminess of the dish. Alternatively, throwing in some sun-dried tomatoes can elevate the umami levels, making the dish even more satisfying.

For those looking for a bit of spice, incorporating crushed red pepper flakes as you sauté the garlic can deliver an enjoyable warmth. Tailor the dish to your palate by adjusting the level of heat according to your family's liking.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find the orzo is sticking together after cooking, it’s likely due to cooking too long or not stirring enough while it simmers. A quick stir can usually break it apart, and in the future, try to keep an eye on timing during the simmering phase.

Should the dish become too thick after cooking, it can happen if not enough broth is used or if you let it simmer too long after the cream is added. Simply stir in additional chicken broth a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with any small pasta, but cooking times may vary.

→ Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

You can reduce the cream or substitute it with a lighter alternative like half-and-half.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

→ Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Vegetables like broccoli or zucchini can be added for extra nutrition.