There's nothing quite as comforting as a warm, flavorful One Pot Chicken Orzo bubbling away on your stove. With juicy pieces of chicken and tender orzo cooked in a savory, aromatic broth, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
I first discovered the magic of this recipe when I was looking for a meal that wouldn’t leave me with a mountain of dishes to clean. One pot, minimal cleanup, and a dinner that everyone loves? It's now a staple in our home, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in yours too.
Why You'll Love This One Pot Chicken Orzo
Get ready to discover your new favorite weeknight meal. This One Pot Chicken Orzo has everything you need for a wholesome, satisfying dinner, and it comes together with ease.
First, this recipe is incredibly convenient. Using just one pot means fewer dishes to wash, making it a lifesaver on those hectic nights when you need a quick cleanup.
The flavors are simply irresistible. The orzo absorbs all the rich, savory goodness from the broth, tomatoes, and spices, creating a dish that's bursting with flavor in every bite. Your kitchen will be filled with the mouthwatering aroma of garlic and herbs, making dinnertime a highlight.
Plus, it's a complete meal all on its own. With tender chicken, hearty pasta, and a generous helping of veggies, you’ll be nourishing your loved ones with a balanced and delicious meal.
Finally, it’s highly adaptable. Whether you’re working with leftover chicken or want to switch up the vegetables based on what you have, this recipe is endlessly customizable.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of this One Pot Chicken Orzo lies in its simple ingredients, each carefully chosen to create a hearty, flavor-packed meal that your whole family will enjoy.
The chicken is the star of this dish. I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they stay tender and juicy, but you can also use chicken breasts if you prefer. Just be careful not to overcook them to keep the meat moist.
Orzo is the perfect pasta for this recipe. This tiny, rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and absorbs all the delicious flavors from the broth. If you can’t find orzo, you can substitute it with another small pasta shape, but orzo is my favorite for the creamy texture it creates.
The vegetables add both nutrition and color to the dish. I use diced onions, minced garlic, and cherry tomatoes for a rich, savory base. You can also add bell peppers or spinach if you want to boost the veggie content.
Chicken broth ties everything together. Using a good-quality broth ensures a rich, flavorful base. You can use homemade or store-bought, just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
For a burst of flavor, herbs and seasonings like dried oregano, thyme, and bay leaves are essential. They infuse the dish with a comforting, savory aroma. Fresh parsley for garnish adds a touch of brightness at the end.
Special equipment? Just one large, heavy-bottomed pot is all you need!
How To Make This One Pot Chicken Orzo

Creating this satisfying One Pot Chicken Orzo couldn’t be easier. Let me guide you through the simple steps.
Start by heating a splash of olive oil in your pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add your seasoned chicken pieces. Let them cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes on each side until they get a nice golden sear. This browning adds a ton of flavor. Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
In the same pot, add diced onions and cook until they become translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. The onion will soak up all those flavorful brown bits left from the chicken. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Next, pour in your chicken broth and diced cherry tomatoes. Scrape the bottom of the pot to release any stuck-on bits; this step ensures maximum flavor in the broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then stir in your orzo, dried oregano, thyme, and a bay leaf.
Return the chicken to the pot, nestling it into the orzo. Cover and let everything simmer for about 12-15 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the chicken is fully cooked. Be sure to stir occasionally to keep the orzo from sticking. If the mixture looks too thick, you can add a splash more broth.
Once the orzo is perfectly tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, remove the pot from the heat. Let it sit, covered, for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Finish by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley on top, and serve it warm.
Total time? You’re looking at just around 30-35 minutes from start to finish, making this an ideal dish for busy evenings.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers, you’re in luck. One Pot Chicken Orzo reheats beautifully and makes for a delicious meal prep option.
To store, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The orzo may continue to absorb some liquid as it sits, so add a splash of broth or water when reheating to loosen it up.
For freezing, transfer cooled leftovers to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop, adding extra broth as needed.
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning, as flavors can mellow over time.
Variations and Substitutions
This One Pot Chicken Orzo is incredibly versatile, making it easy to customize based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
Want to add more vegetables? Go ahead! Chopped bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini are great options. Just add them in with the onions for a boost of color and nutrition.
If you’re craving a different flavor profile, try swapping the dried herbs. A bit of basil or a pinch of smoked paprika can add a whole new dimension to the dish.
Need a vegetarian version? Simply omit the chicken and double up on the vegetables. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep the flavors rich and hearty.
For a creamy twist, stir in a handful of grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt just before serving. It adds a luxurious texture that feels indulgent without being overly heavy.
Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment. Cooking is all about making the dish your own, so feel free to adjust the flavors and ingredients to suit your taste. Enjoy every warm, flavorful bite!
PrintOne Pot Chicken Orzo Recipe
This One Pot Chicken Orzo Recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make dinner option. Made with tender chicken, flavorful orzo pasta, and fresh vegetables, this dish comes together in just one pot for minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 3 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Add cubed chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add diced onion and cook until translucent. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in orzo, then add chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer, add cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, and chopped spinach. Cook until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
- Use any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers or zucchini, for variety.
- For a creamier dish, add a splash of heavy cream or more Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
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