Orzo, a type of pasta, is often overlooked in favor of its more popular counterparts like spaghetti and penne. But trust us, this small, grain-like pasta has the power to elevate even the simplest dishes into something truly special. When paired with creamy sauces and savory chicken, orzo becomes a match made in heaven. In this article, we’re excited to share 20 delicious recipes that combine the best of both worlds: creamy orzo and chicken delights.
From classic comfort food to international-inspired flavors, our list includes a variety of dishes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, we’ve got you covered with these mouthwatering recipes.
Lemon Garlic Chicken and Orzo Skillet
This bright and flavorful skillet dish combines the simplicity of one-pot cooking with the bold flavors of lemon, garlic, and chicken. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Stir in lemon juice, chicken broth, and orzo pasta. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
5. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and cook until heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo
This recipe combines the richness of chicken, the creaminess of sun-dried tomatoes, and the comforting warmth of orzo pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add cooked chicken, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Mediterranean Chicken Orzo
A flavorful and satisfying one-pot dish that combines the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with the comfort of a hearty orzo meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed Mediterranean vegetables (such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and Kalamata olives)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the mixed vegetables, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add the orzo pasta to the pot, stirring to coat with the vegetable mixture.
6. Return the chicken to the pot and stir to combine.
7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the orzo is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken with Orzo
A flavorful and nutritious main course that combines the savory taste of spinach and feta cheese with the comfort of orzo pasta.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay the chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the spinach mixture.
4. Place the stuffed chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Serve the chicken breasts with the cooked orzo pasta and drizzle with remaining chicken broth.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Chicken and Orzo Bake
A flavorful and satisfying casserole that combines the richness of pesto with the creaminess of Greek yogurt, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz. orzo pasta
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as basil, parsley, and oregano)
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine chicken, pesto, and mixed greens; toss until coated.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together Greek yogurt and mozzarella cheese.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of orzo pasta, followed by the chicken mixture, then the yogurt-mozzarella mixture.
6. Repeat layers one more time, finishing with a layer of yogurt-mozzarella on top.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken Orzo Soup
Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight meal, this comforting soup is made with tender chicken, creamy orzo, and aromatic vegetables. This slow cooker recipe requires minimal effort, leaving you more time to relax and enjoy the warmth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 celery stalk, sliced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place all ingredients in a slow cooker.
2. Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (LOW) or 3-4 hours (HIGH)
Greek-Style Chicken and Orzo Salad
This refreshing salad combines juicy chicken, nutty orzo, and tangy feta cheese with a hint of Mediterranean flavors. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1 cup orzo pasta, cooked and cooled
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/2 cup mixed olives, pitted
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, chicken, feta cheese, parsley, dill, and olives.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cheesy Chicken and Orzo Casserole
Satisfy your cravings with this creamy, comforting casserole that combines the flavors of chicken, orzo, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken with salt, pepper, and basil until cooked through.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine milk, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the orzo pasta in the bottom. Top with cooked chicken, then pour the cheesy milk mixture evenly over the top.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole.
7. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
8. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken with Orzo Pilaf
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines juicy chicken with a rich garlic butter sauce, served atop a nutty orzo pilaf. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium; add remaining 1 tbsp butter, garlic, and thyme. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. In a separate pot, cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain excess water.
5. Return chicken to skillet and spoon some of the garlic butter sauce over it. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve chicken atop orzo pilaf.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes.
Tomato Basil Chicken Orzo Risotto
This Italian-inspired dish combines the flavors of juicy chicken, sweet tomatoes, and fresh basil with creamy orzo risotto. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups mixed cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup white wine (optional)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook chicken breast in a skillet with olive oil, garlic, and salt until cooked through.
2. In a separate pot, sauté orzo in butter until lightly toasted.
3. Add white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed.
4. Gradually add vegetable broth, whisking continuously, until orzo is tender.
5. Stir in cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, and basil.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Bacon and Mushroom Chicken Orzo
This hearty dish combines the savory flavors of crispy bacon, earthy mushrooms, and tender chicken with the comforting warmth of orzo. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe is quick to prepare and cooks in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium-high heat until crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the chicken, mushrooms, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the mushrooms are tender.
4. Stir in the cooked orzo, chicken broth, and crispy bacon.
5. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Orzo
Brighten up your dinner plate with this refreshing and flavorful combination of grilled chicken, orzo, and zesty lemon herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. In a small saucepan, bring chicken broth to a simmer and stir in lemon zest (optional).
7. Serve grilled chicken on top of orzo with warm chicken broth spooned over.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo Bake
This creamy, comforting casserole combines the flavors of chicken, broccoli, and cheddar with the nutty taste of orzo. It’s a perfect one-pot meal for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 8 ounces orzo pasta
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. In a separate bowl, combine cooked orzo, chicken, broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Cajun Chicken and Orzo
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this bold and flavorful Spicy Cajun Chicken and Orzo recipe, packed with spicy kick and satisfying crunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped scallions and crumbled feta cheese for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper to the skillet; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Pour in chicken broth and stir to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until liquid is reduced by half.
6. Combine cooked orzo pasta with spicy chicken mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: approximately 20-25 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Orzo
A flavorful and vibrant pasta dish, Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Orzo is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 8 ounces orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss chicken with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add chopped red peppers and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Combine roasted chicken, red pepper mixture, and cooked orzo in a serving dish.
6. Season with thyme and salt to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken Parmesan Orzo Skillet
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this hearty, one-pot skillet recipe that combines the flavors of Italy and the comfort of a classic chicken parmesan. This dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups mixed cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they release their juices, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked orzo, Parmesan cheese, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss everything together.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Avocado Lime Chicken Orzo Bowl
This vibrant bowl combines the creaminess of avocado with the brightness of lime and the comfort of chicken and orzo. A perfect blend of flavors and textures to kick off your week.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Grill or cook chicken breast until cooked through. Slice into strips.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Add cooked orzo, chicken, and diced avocado to the bowl. Toss to combine.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramelized Onion Chicken with Orzo
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this sweet and savory dish, featuring tender chicken, caramelized onions, and creamy orzo.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 30-40 minutes or until caramelized.
3. Meanwhile, cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Season chicken with thyme, salt, and pepper. Add chicken to the skillet with the onions and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes per side.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, caramelized onions, and chicken broth. Stir in Parmesan cheese.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with the chicken pieces. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tuscan White Bean Chicken Orzo Stew
Tuscan White Bean Chicken Orzo Stew: A hearty and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, creamy cannellini beans, and nutty orzo pasta, all infused with the rich flavors of Italy.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked cannellini beans (canned or cooked from scratch)
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, garlic, onion, and red bell pepper in a little olive oil until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the cooked cannellini beans, orzo pasta, diced tomatoes, thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
4. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Herbed Chicken and Orzo Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines flavorful chicken, savory orzo, and a hint of herby goodness, all wrapped up in tender bell peppers. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner!
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup cooked orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
5. Stir in cooked orzo, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
6. Stuff each pepper with the chicken-orzo mixture, topping with feta cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these 20 creamy orzo recipes featuring chicken as the star ingredient! From one-pot wonders like Mediterranean Chicken Orzo and Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken, to skillet meals like Lemon Garlic Chicken and Orzo Skillet, there’s something for everyone. Discover how orzo pairs perfectly with sun-dried tomatoes, pesto, garlic butter, and more in recipes that are sure to become new favorites. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting casserole or a light and refreshing salad, these chicken and orzo recipes have got you covered.