Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta that has been gaining popularity in recent years. Its versatility and ability to absorb flavors make it a perfect ingredient for delicious and satisfying meals. One of the most popular ways to use orzo is in chicken recipes. Combining the tender and juicy flavors of chicken with the chewy and comforting texture of orzo, these dishes are sure to become staples in your recipe collection. Here are some creative and flavorful orzo chicken recipes that will take your taste buds on a savory journey.
Beer can chicken may be a classic, but have you ever tried it with orzo? This small, rice-shaped pasta is the perfect complement to tender chicken and flavorful seasonings. These 15 orzo chicken recipes will have you saying goodbye to plain old rice and hello to a whole new world of flavor.
2of 15
One-Pot Greek Chicken with Orzo
This one-pot wonder is bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Marinated chicken thighs are cooked with orzo, tomatoes, spinach, and olives for a complete meal in one dish. The orzo absorbs all the delicious juices from the chicken, making every bite packed with flavor.
3of 15
Lemon Garlic Orzo with Chicken and Asparagus
Brighten up your dinner table with this lemon garlic orzo dish. Chicken breasts are cooked with garlic, lemon juice, and zest for a burst of tangy flavor. Tender asparagus and creamy orzo make the perfect side for this zesty chicken.
4of 15
Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Chicken and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This creamy orzo dish is a crowd-pleaser. Tender chicken is cooked with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, then tossed with a creamy parmesan sauce. The orzo soaks up all the delicious flavors and makes this dish a true comfort food.
5of 15
Broccoli Cheddar Orzo with Chicken
This cheesy orzo dish is a great way to sneak in some veggies. Tender chicken is combined with broccoli and cheddar cheese for a delicious and hearty meal. The orzo adds a nice texture and soaks up all the cheesy goodness.
6of 15
Balsamic Chicken and Orzo Salad
This balsamic chicken and orzo salad is perfect for a light and refreshing meal. Tender chicken is marinated in a balsamic dressing and served on a bed of orzo, cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese. It's the perfect balance of tangy and savory.
7of 15
Cajun Chicken and Andouille Orzo Skillet
Spice things up with this Cajun-inspired orzo dish. Tender chicken and Andouille sausage are cooked with cajun seasonings and tossed with orzo and bell peppers. It's a one-skillet meal that's bursting with flavor.
8of 15
Pesto Chicken and Roasted Red Pepper Orzo
This pesto chicken dish is a perfect weeknight meal. Tender chicken is cooked with pesto and roasted red peppers, then tossed with orzo and spinach. It's a simple and delicious way to elevate your dinner game.
9of 15
Cheesy Tomato and Basil Chicken Orzo Casserole
This cheesy orzo casserole is comfort food at its finest. Tender chicken is cooked with tomatoes, basil, and garlic, then tossed with orzo and topped with a layer of cheese. It's the perfect dish to warm you up on a cold night.
10of 15
Lemon Herb Chicken and Mushroom Orzo Skillet
This lemon herb chicken dish is packed with flavor. Tender chicken is cooked with lemon juice, thyme, and rosemary, then tossed with orzo and mushrooms. The orzo soaks up all the delicious juices and makes this dish a standout.
11of 15
Creamy Chicken and Spinach Orzo Soup
This creamy orzo soup is perfect for those chilly nights. Tender chicken is combined with spinach and carrots in a rich and creamy broth. The orzo adds a nice texture and makes this soup a hearty and satisfying meal.
12of 15
Mediterranean Grilled Chicken and Orzo Salad
This Mediterranean-inspired orzo salad is perfect for a summer cookout. Tender grilled chicken is served on a bed of orzo, tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese. The flavors of the Mediterranean come alive in this fresh and delicious dish.
13of 15
Ranch Chicken and Bacon Orzo Bowls
This ranch chicken and bacon orzo dish is a crowd-pleaser. Tender chicken is cooked with ranch seasoning and tossed with crispy bacon and orzo. It's a quick and easy meal that the whole family will love.
14of 15
Tuscan Chicken and Orzo Skillet
This Tuscan-inspired orzo dish is full of flavor. Tender chicken is cooked with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach, then tossed with orzo and parmesan cheese. It's a simple and delicious meal that will transport you to Italy with every bite.
15of 15
Honey Mustard Chicken and Broccoli Orzo Bake
This honey mustard chicken and broccoli orzo bake is a great way to get your veggies in. Tender chicken is coated in a honey mustard sauce and baked with broccoli and orzo. It's a flavorful and nutritious meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Creamy Lemon Orzo Chicken
Ingredients:
4 boneless chicken breasts, pounded to an even thickness
1 cup orzo pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves of garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a large pot, cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and add them to the pan. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until the chicken is fully cooked. Remove from pan and set aside.
In the same pan, add minced garlic and cook for about a minute. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
Add heavy cream, parmesan cheese, lemon juice, oregano, and thyme to the pan. Stir until well combined and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
Add the cooked orzo to the pan and toss until it is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
Place the chicken breasts on top of the orzo and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
Serve hot and enjoy the creamy and tangy flavors of this delicious orzo chicken dish.
This creamy lemon orzo chicken recipe is a perfect example of how orzo can take a simple chicken dish to a whole new level. The tangy and creamy sauce, combined with the tender and juicy chicken, creates a burst of flavors in every bite. The orzo adds a satisfying texture and makes this dish a complete meal on its own.
One-Pot Chicken and Vegetable Orzo
Ingredients:
4 boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup orzo pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup diced carrots
1 cup diced zucchini
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown.
Add onion and garlic, and cook until they are soft and fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Add orzo, carrots, and zucchini to the pot and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes or until the orzo is fully cooked.
Season with salt and pepper, and add chopped parsley.
Serve hot and enjoy this delicious and hearty one-pot meal.
This one-pot chicken and vegetable orzo dish is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. It is packed with protein, vegetables, and orzo, making it a balanced and nutritious meal. The orzo absorbs all the flavors from the chicken and vegetables, creating a tasty and satisfying dish.
In conclusion, orzo chicken recipes are a great way to add some variety to your meal planning. They are easy to make, flavorful, and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. So, next time you're in the mood for a delicious and comforting meal, give one of these orzo chicken recipes a try. Your taste buds will thank you!