Orzo Pasta Chicken

Why make this recipe

Orzo Pasta Chicken is a simple and delicious meal that is perfect for any weeknight dinner. It combines tender orzo pasta with shredded chicken and fresh vegetables, making it both nutritious and filling. This recipe is not only quick to prepare, but it is also a great way to use leftover chicken. Plus, the addition of Parmesan cheese gives it a rich flavor that everyone will love.

How to make Orzo Pasta Chicken

Ingredients:

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup vegetables (e.g., spinach, bell peppers, peas)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cooked chicken and vegetables, sautéing until heated through.
3. Stir in the cooked orzo, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired before serving.

How to serve Orzo Pasta Chicken

Serve Orzo Pasta Chicken warm in bowls. You can top it with more Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs for added flavor. This dish pairs well with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

How to store Orzo Pasta Chicken

To store leftovers, place the Orzo Pasta Chicken in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.

Tips to make Orzo Pasta Chicken

• Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand. Broccoli, zucchini, or carrots are great options.
• For added flavor, sauté some onion or garlic with the chicken and vegetables.
• For a little spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking.

Variation

You can easily switch up the protein by using shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

FAQs

Can I use raw chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use raw chicken. Cook the chicken in the pot with olive oil until fully cooked before adding the vegetables.

What other cheeses can I use?
You can substitute Parmesan with mozzarella, feta, or any cheese you prefer.

Can I freeze Orzo Pasta Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

Orzo Pasta Chicken

A simple and delicious weeknight dinner combining tender orzo pasta, shredded chicken, and fresh vegetables, topped with Parmesan cheese.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Pasta and Chicken Base

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Great for using leftover chicken.
• 1 cup chicken broth

Vegetables and Seasoning

• 1 cup vegetables (e.g., spinach, bell peppers, peas) Any vegetables on hand can be used.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Substitute with other cheeses if preferred.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Method

 

Cooking Orzo

1. In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil.
2. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sautéing

1. In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the cooked chicken and vegetables, sautéing until heated through.

Combining Ingredients

1. Stir in the cooked orzo, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined.

Seasoning and Serving

1. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired before serving.

Notes

To store leftovers, place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of chicken broth. This dish pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread.