Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

One-Pot Italian Chicken and Orzo

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: simplemealsbykim
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: One Pot/One Pan
  • Cuisine: Italian

Description

This One-Pot Italian Chicken and Orzo is a cozy and flavorful weeknight dinner that comes together quickly with simple ingredients. Juicy chicken, tender orzo pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce make this a family favorite. Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze!

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 small yellow onion, diced

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1 teaspoon dried basil

  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta

  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)

  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

  • 1 cup fresh spinach (roughly chopped)

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 small yellow onion, diced

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1 teaspoon dried basil

  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta

  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)

  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

  • 1 cup fresh spinach (roughly chopped)

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.

  2. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until lightly browned, about 5–6 minutes. Remove from the pot and set aside.

  3. In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another minute.

  4. Stir in the orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes.

  5. Add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.

  6. Return the chicken to the pot. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the chicken is cooked through.

  7. Stir in the chopped spinach and Parmesan cheese. Let it cook for another 1–2 minutes until spinach is wilted.

  8. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

  9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

  • You can swap spinach for kale or arugula.

  • Add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for brightness.

  • For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1 ½ cups)
  • Calories: 410
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 39g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Find it online: https://simplemealsbykim.com/one-pot-italian-chicken-and-orzo/