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 chicken breast, diced; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Fast Family Favorites

I absolutely love this One Pot Creamy Chicken And Orzo recipe! It's the perfect combination of comfort food and convenience, and I can whip it up in a flash. The creamy sauce coats each piece of tender chicken and orzo beautifully, making every bite delicious and satisfying. Plus, the fact that it all comes together in just one pot means less cleanup, which is a huge bonus in my busy kitchen. Trust me, this dish has quickly become a staple in our home, and I can't wait for you to try it!

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-15T02:01:36.031Z

When I first attempted this One Pot Creamy Chicken And Orzo, I was amazed at how simple and delightful it turned out. The combination of the creamy sauce and tender chicken creates a irresistibly comforting dish that reminds me of family dinners. I added a splash of lemon juice at the end, which brightened the flavors perfectly!

One of my best cooking tips is to allow the chicken to sear before adding the orzo. This method not only enhances the flavor but also prevents the chicken from becoming dry. Trust me; the results are worth it every time!

You'll Love This Recipe Because
Rich and creamy texture that comforts the soul
All prepared in one pot for easy cleanup
Hearty and satisfying for any meal occasion

The Importance of Ingredients

In this One Pot Creamy Chicken and Orzo recipe, each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving the dish’s rich flavor and creamy texture. The chicken breast provides lean protein, while the heavy cream brings a luxurious mouthfeel that envelops the orzo and chicken, creating an indulgent experience. Choosing fresh garlic and onions enhances the aroma, making the dish even more inviting. Opt for high-quality chicken broth to intensify the overall taste, as store-bought options can vary in flavor intensity.

For a lighter version, consider replacing the heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based alternative like coconut cream. Keep in mind, though, that this may alter the flavor profile slightly. You can also substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes such as ditalini or small shells, but remember to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta's instructions.

Technique Tips for Perfect Cooking

Searing the chicken at the right temperature is critical for achieving a golden-brown exterior that locks in moisture and flavor. Make sure your pot is preheated before adding the chicken; if the oil doesn't sizzle when the chicken hits the pan, it's not hot enough. Cook until the chicken is just browned, as overcooking can lead to dry meat. If you notice any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot during the sauté, don’t worry! Those flavorful bits will enrich the dish when combined with the broth and orzo.

When adding the orzo to the pot, stirring it into the broth and ensuring it’s fully submerged helps prevent uneven cooking. Keep an eye on the simmering process; too vigorous a boil may cause the pasta to break apart, while not simmering enough can lead to undercooked orzo. After the initial cooking time, taste for doneness—al dente orzo should have a slight chew, which perfectly complements the creaminess of this dish.

Ingredients

Gather all the following ingredients before you start cooking.

Main Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make this delicious dish!

Sear the Chicken

In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the diced chicken, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent.

Add Orzo and Broth

Stir in the orzo, followed by the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer, covering the pot. Cook for about 10-12 minutes until the orzo is cooked.

Stir in Cream

Once the orzo is tender, return the seared chicken to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.

Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Enjoy your delectable meal!

Pro Tips

For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with milk or a non-dairy alternative. Adding a handful of spinach or peas in the last few minutes of cooking can also enhance the dish's nutrition and flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This One Pot Creamy Chicken and Orzo is an excellent candidate for meal prep! You can easily cook the entire dish a day ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of additional chicken broth or cream to maintain its creamy consistency. Keep in mind that the orzo will continue to absorb liquid when stored, so adjust accordingly to avoid a dry dish upon reheating.

If you plan to freeze this dish, I recommend doing so before adding the cream. Allow the dish to cool completely after cooking, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently, stirring in the heavy cream at the end of the cooking process.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Feel free to customize this dish based on your taste preferences or ingredients on hand! You can add veggies like spinach, peas, or mushrooms during the sauté step for added nutrition and flavor. For a kick of spice, consider including red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce when stirring in the cream. Cheese lovers can sprinkle some grated Parmesan or crumbled feta on top for an extra layer of richness.

For a lovely presentation, serve the dish in shallow bowls garnished with freshly chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also balances the creaminess with a zesty finish. Pair it with a crisp side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that is sure to impress family or guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, just make sure to cook it thoroughly; it may take a little longer.

→ Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Broccoli or spinach work well and can be added with the cream at the end.

→ What can I substitute for orzo?

You can use or any small pasta like ditalini or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.