Busy weeknights call for delicious, no-fuss meals that satisfy everyone. This one-pot garlic butter chicken orzo recipe is exactly that! It’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal cleanup, yet it delivers rich, savory flavors that will quickly become a family favorite. Imagine tender, juicy chicken thighs nestled in creamy, perfectly cooked orzo, all infused with fragrant garlic butter. This delightful chicken orzo dish promises comfort and convenience in every single bite.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Chicken Orzo
This delightful one-pot chicken orzo is designed to make your life easier and your meals tastier. Here’s why you’ll want to add it to your regular rotation:
- Quick and Easy Preparation: Get a delicious dinner on the table with minimal fuss and effort.
- Minimal Cleanup: Everything cooks in one pot, saving you precious time on dish duty.
- Rich, Savory Garlic Butter Flavor: A comforting blend of garlic and butter elevates every component.
- Juicy, Tender Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs cook up perfectly moist and flavorful.
- Creamy, Perfectly Cooked Orzo: The small pasta absorbs all the wonderful flavors, becoming incredibly satisfying.
- Family-Friendly and Satisfying Meal: A hearty dish that everyone at your table will enjoy.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your incredible garlic butter chicken orzo. You’ll be amazed at how a few pantry staples transform into such a flavorful meal.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- Kosher salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 pound uncooked orzo
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 32 ounces chicken stock
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Chopped fresh parsley, for topping
- Parmesan cheese, for topping
Notes & Substitutions
- Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred for better control over seasoning. You can use salted butter, but reduce the added salt slightly.
- Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs offer the best flavor and tenderness here. Chicken breast can work, but consider cutting it into 1-inch pieces to prevent it from drying out and to ensure even cooking with the orzo.
- Chicken Stock: Quality chicken stock or broth provides the best flavor base. If you only have water, you can use it, but consider adding a bouillon cube or powder for enhanced taste.
- Orzo: Any type of orzo pasta will work beautifully in this chicken orzo recipe. Whole wheat or gluten-free orzo can be substituted, though cooking times might vary slightly.
- Herbs & Cheese: Fresh parsley adds brightness and color. Dried parsley can be used if fresh isn’t available, but add it during the last few minutes of cooking. Grated Parmesan cheese is highly recommended for a salty, umami finish.
- Seasoning: Always taste and adjust salt and pepper as you go.
Equipment
You won’t need much specialized equipment for this straightforward one-pot garlic butter chicken orzo.
- Large cast iron or ceramic skillet (with a lid)
- Tongs or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Optional: Meat thermometer
Instructions
Creating this flavorful garlic butter chicken orzo is a breeze! Follow these steps for a perfect, satisfying meal.
- Prepare Chicken: Heat the 3 tablespoons of butter in a large cast iron or ceramic skillet over medium heat. Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial for achieving a beautiful sear. Season the chicken all over with salt and pepper.
- Sear Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the hot skillet and cook on both sides until deeply golden brown, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Searing creates incredible flavor and color. Once both sides are done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
- Toast Orzo & Garlic: There should be a bit of butter or chicken grease left in the skillet. If not, add a tablespoon of butter or olive oil. Add the uncooked orzo to the skillet and stir, ensuring it’s all coated in the residual butter. Stir in the minced garlic. Cook, stirring often, for about 2-3 minutes, so the orzo toasts and turns a bit golden. It will also become very fragrant, deepening the flavor of your chicken orzo.
- Add Stock & Chicken: Pour the chicken stock in with the toasted orzo. Carefully nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the pan with the stock and orzo, making sure they are partially submerged.
- Simmer & Cook: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the skillet tightly. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes, until the liquid is absorbed by the pasta and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. I suggest checking about 12 to 15 minutes and going from there, as simmer intensity varies.
- Finish & Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Drizzle with the extra 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Top generously with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve your delicious garlic butter chicken orzo immediately and enjoy!
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Achieving Perfect Chicken:
- Always pat chicken dry before seasoning and searing. This promotes a crispy, flavorful crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even searing.
- Sear for a deep golden crust on both sides to build maximum flavor.
- The USDA provides comprehensive guidance on ensuring poultry is safely cooked. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches 165°F internally for safety and perfect doneness.
Preventing Mushy Orzo:
- Toasting the orzo until lightly golden and fragrant before adding liquid helps it hold its texture. Learn more about the culinary benefits of toasting pasta.
- Maintain a gentle simmer, not a vigorous boil, once covered.
- Check for liquid absorption and tenderness around the 12-minute mark; adjust cook time as needed.
- Avoid overcooking; once the liquid is mostly absorbed and the orzo is tender, it’s done.
Maximizing Flavor:
- Generously season the chicken with salt and pepper before searing.
- Don’t skip toasting the orzo; it adds a nutty depth to your garlic butter chicken orzo.
- Use fresh aromatics like minced garlic for the best taste.
- Finish with fresh herbs like parsley and a good quality Parmesan cheese.
Adjusting Liquid:
- If the orzo seems too dry but isn’t quite tender, add a splash more chicken broth (about 1/4 cup at a time) and continue simmering briefly.
- If there’s excess liquid but the orzo is cooked, remove the lid for the last few minutes of cooking to allow it to evaporate.
Serving Suggestions & Variations
Classic Pairings:
- Serve your garlic butter chicken orzo alongside simple roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for a balanced meal.
- A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette makes a refreshing contrast.
- Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any extra delicious sauce from the pan.
Recipe Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach during the last 2 minutes of cooking until wilted. Sautéed mushrooms or diced cherry tomatoes can also be added with the garlic.
- Spice it Up: For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic. A dash of smoked paprika can also add warmth.
- Add Acidity: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice stirred in at the end brightens the flavors. Capers can also be added for a briny touch.
- Creamy Touch: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a tablespoon of cream cheese at the end for an extra luscious chicken orzo.
Storage & Reheating
To store your leftover chicken orzo, first ensure it has cooled completely to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you can use either the stovetop or the microwave. On the stovetop, warm over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to rehydrate the orzo and prevent it from drying out. In the microwave, heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through, also adding a little liquid if needed.
Nutrition Information
Please note that the nutritional information provided is an estimate. It is calculated based on the ingredients listed and may vary depending on specific brands, preparation methods, and exact portion sizes. This information is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered a substitute for professional nutritional advice.
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Estimated) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 650 kcal |
| Protein | 45g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Carbs | 60g |
| Fiber | 3g |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use chicken breast instead?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breast. Cut it into 1-inch pieces to ensure it cooks evenly and quickly with the orzo, preventing it from drying out.
Can I use water instead of chicken stock?
You can use water, but your garlic butter chicken orzo will have a less rich flavor. For best results, enhance the water with a bouillon cube or powder to add depth.
Can I make this with bone-in, skin-on chicken?
Yes, you can! Increase the searing time for bone-in, skin-on chicken to ensure the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F, adjusting the total cooking time slightly.
Can I bake this recipe in the oven?
Absolutely! After searing the chicken and toasting the orzo, combine all ingredients in an oven-safe pot, cover tightly, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the chicken is cooked through.
How do I scale this recipe for more servings?
To make more servings of this delicious chicken orzo, simply double or triple the ingredients. Be sure to use a larger skillet or pot to accommodate the increased volume and ensure everything cooks evenly.
My orzo turned out bland, what happened?
Blandness often comes from under-seasoning. Ensure you generously season the chicken and also taste and adjust the seasoning of the stock and orzo as it cooks for the best flavor.
Conclusion
There you have it: a truly delicious and incredibly simple one-pot garlic butter chicken orzo that’s perfect for any night of the week. This recipe proves that you don’t need a lot of time or a stack of dirty dishes to enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal. With its tender chicken, creamy orzo, and rich garlic butter sauce, it’s bound to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. We encourage you to try this amazing chicken orzo dish soon. Don’t forget to share your creations with us, we’d love to see them!
One-Pot Garlic Butter Chicken Orzo: An Easy Weeknight Meal
Equipment
- large cast iron or ceramic skillet
- Paper towel
- Plate
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- kosher salt
- pepper
- 1 pound uncooked orzo
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 32 ounces chicken stock
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- fresh parsley chopped, for topping
- parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Heat 3 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet, then pat the chicken dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook until deeply golden on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side, then transfer to a plate.
- If needed, add more butter to the skillet, then add the orzo and stir to coat. Stir in the minced garlic and cook, stirring often, until the orzo toasts and becomes fragrant.
- Pour the chicken stock into the orzo, nestle the cooked chicken thighs back into the pan, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the chicken reaches 165°F internally.
- Drizzle the dish with the extra melted butter, then top with chopped fresh parsley and parmesan cheese before serving immediately.