Chicken Thigh and Orzo Pasta
Why make this recipe
Chicken Thigh and Orzo Pasta is a delicious and filling dish that is simple to make. It combines tender chicken thighs with the comforting texture of orzo pasta, making it a perfect meal for any day of the week. Whether you’re cooking for your family or looking for a satisfying dinner after a long day, this recipe will surely please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s packed with flavors from garlic, onions, and spinach, making it a healthy choice as well.
How to make Chicken Thigh and Orzo Pasta
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Directions:
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and oregano. Add the chicken to the pan and cook until browned on both sides and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in the orzo pasta and mix well, allowing it to toast slightly for a couple of minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until the orzo is almost cooked.
- Add the cooked chicken back to the pan along with the chopped spinach. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until spinach wilts and orzo is fully cooked.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary, and serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top if desired.
How to serve Chicken Thigh and Orzo Pasta
Serve the Chicken Thigh and Orzo Pasta hot in bowls. You can add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor. Pair it with a nice salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to store Chicken Thigh and Orzo Pasta
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Tips to make Chicken Thigh and Orzo Pasta
- Use high-quality chicken broth for better flavor.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- If you like a bit of spice, consider adding red pepper flakes.
Variation (if any)
You can easily turn this dish into a one-pot meal by adding other protein options like shrimp or sausage. You could also try different herbs like thyme or basil for a different taste.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, you can use different types of small pasta, such as ditalini or mini shells. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Is this dish gluten-free?
No, traditional orzo is made from wheat. However, you can find gluten-free orzo made from rice or other gluten-free grains.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time but it’s best to store the pasta and chicken separately to prevent the pasta from becoming mushy. Just combine them when ready to serve.
Chicken Thigh and Orzo Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and oregano. Add the chicken to the pan and cook until browned on both sides and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in the orzo pasta and mix well, allowing it to toast slightly for a couple of minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until the orzo is almost cooked.
- Add the cooked chicken back into the pan along with the chopped spinach. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and orzo is fully cooked.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary, and serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top if desired.
