Description
This Creamy Chicken Orzo recipe is a comforting and hearty one-pot meal featuring tender shredded chicken, tender vegetables, and creamy orzo pasta simmered in flavorful chicken stock and seasoned with Italian herbs. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this dish combines simple ingredients into a satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare in about 50 minutes.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
- 2 ribs celery, chopped (about 1 cup)
- 2 large carrots, peeled and cut into 1/3-inch pieces (about 1 cup)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 2-3 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 pound orzo
- 8 cups chicken stock
Herbs & Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon minced flat leaf parsley
- 1 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
- 1¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is glistening, add the chopped onion, celery, carrots, and ½ teaspoon of sea salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent, about 7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes more.
- Add Chicken Stock and Boil: Pour in the chicken stock, increase the heat to high, and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
- Add Chicken, Orzo, and Seasonings: Stir in the shredded cooked chicken and the orzo pasta. Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced parsley, remaining 1 teaspoon of sea salt, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and freshly cracked black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Simmer Until Tender and Creamy: Let the mixture simmer gently until the vegetables are tender, the orzo becomes creamy, and most of the liquid has been absorbed, about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken for convenience.
- For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of cream or Greek yogurt before serving.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste, especially salt and pepper.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stove or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
