One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Orzo
If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that comes together quickly with minimal cleanup, this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Orzo is exactly what you need. It’s a delicious twist on the classic chicken parmesan, combining tender chicken, orzo pasta, flavorful tomatoes, and melty cheese—all cooked in a single pot. Whether you’re juggling a busy weeknight or just want a fuss-free dinner, this recipe delivers big on taste and simplicity. The addition of fresh basil gives it a bright finish, making it an irresistible dish your whole family will love.
Why It Works Every Time
This recipe hits all the right notes for a satisfying meal, and here’s why it works so well:
- One-pot magic: Cooking everything in one pot means flavors meld beautifully, and there’s less mess to clean up.
- Even cooking: The orzo absorbs the tomato broth perfectly, creating a creamy texture without needing extra cream or cheese sauces.
- Balanced flavors: The savory chicken, aromatic garlic and onion, tangy tomatoes, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese create a harmonious flavor profile.
- Time-saving: No need to brown chicken separately or boil pasta—this recipe streamlines the cooking process without sacrificing taste.
- Customizable: You can easily swap herbs or add veggies to suit your preferences.
Your Shopping Guide
To make this delightful One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Orzo, here’s a detailed list of ingredients you’ll want to gather:
- Chicken breast (1 pound, diced): Choose fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tender pieces that cook quickly.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Use extra virgin olive oil for better flavor and health benefits.
- Onion (1, diced): Yellow or white onion works well, adding a subtle sweetness when cooked.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic gives the dish its aromatic punch.
- Orzo pasta (1 cup): This rice-shaped pasta absorbs flavors beautifully and cooks quickly.
- Chicken broth (4 cups): Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
- Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz, undrained): Adds a rich, tangy base—no need to drain the juice.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme for depth.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, balancing all elements perfectly.
- Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded): Look for a good melting variety for gooey texture.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Adds nutty, savory notes on top.
- Fresh basil leaves: For garnish and a fresh, herbaceous finish.
Prep & Cook Tools
Having the right tools on hand makes cooking this recipe a breeze:
- Large deep skillet or sauté pan with lid: For cooking everything in one pot without splatter.
- Sharp chef’s knife: To dice chicken and chop vegetables efficiently.
- Cutting board: A sturdy surface for prep.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: For stirring and scraping the bottom of the pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
- Grater: For fresh Parmesan cheese if not pre-grated.
One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Orzo Cooking Guide
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in your large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides but not fully cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
In the same pan, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
Step 3: Combine Orzo and Liquids
Add the orzo pasta directly into the pan with the onions and garlic. Stir to coat the pasta with the flavorful oil and aromatics. Pour in the chicken broth and the entire can of diced tomatoes with their juices. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, and add salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything well.
Step 4: Simmer and Cook Through
Return the browned chicken to the pan, submerging it gently in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Remove the lid and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and let it sit off the heat for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish with fresh basil leaves scattered on top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting goodness of your homemade One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Orzo.
Fresh Takes Through the Year
- Spring: Add fresh peas or asparagus tips for a sweet, crisp texture.
- Summer: Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a smoky twist.
- Fall: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or spinach for earthiness and extra nutrients.
- Winter: Swap chicken broth for a rich vegetable broth and include kale or Swiss chard for warmth and color.
Chef’s Rationale
Creating this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Orzo was all about capturing the essence of classic chicken parmesan in a streamlined, weeknight-friendly format. I wanted to keep the bright tomato flavors and cheesy richness but cut down on the time and effort involved in frying chicken and boiling pasta separately. Using orzo pasta is a clever choice—it cooks quickly and absorbs the tomato-infused broth, giving the dish a creamy consistency without needing heavy cream or extra fat. The balance of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese adds that iconic cheesy pull and savory depth that makes chicken parmesan so beloved. Garnishing with fresh basil adds freshness that cuts through the richness, keeping each bite vibrant.
Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the orzo and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to avoid drying out. This dish also freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. To reheat frozen portions, warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of broth to restore creaminess and prevent sticking.
Ask the Chef
Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?
Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or acini di pepe work well in this recipe. Just keep in mind the cooking time may vary slightly, so adjust accordingly to ensure the pasta is tender but not mushy.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken. You can add hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for substance. For added protein, consider stirring in cooked lentils or chickpeas.
How do I prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pan?
Make sure to stir the mixture occasionally while it simmers, especially as the orzo begins to absorb the liquid. Using a good quality non-stick or heavy-bottomed pan also helps distribute heat evenly and prevent sticking.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken and chop the vegetables in advance, storing them separately in the fridge. When ready to cook, simply combine everything and follow the cooking steps. However, it’s best to enjoy the dish freshly cooked for the best texture and flavor.
Explore More
- For a cheesy pasta bake with a similar comforting vibe, try the Baked Three Cheese Chicken Penne.
- If you love stuffed pasta dishes, the Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells With Marinara is an incredible option full of creamy goodness.
- For a fresh pasta dish with roasted tomato flavors, check out the Roasted Tomato Burrata Cavatappi, another one-pot wonder.
Bring It Home
This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Orzo is the perfect weeknight dinner that feels like a special occasion. It’s quick, flavorful, and minimal fuss—ideal for busy lifestyles but still satisfying enough for family dinners. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked orzo, and rich cheeses all melded in a tomato-infused broth delivers cozy comfort with every bite. Pair it with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread to round out your meal. Once you try this, it’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh basil for that final touch of freshness and color.
With just one pot, simple ingredients, and straightforward steps, you can enjoy the classic flavors of chicken parmesan with a modern twist that’s both practical and delicious. Happy cooking!
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One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Orzo
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the olive oil in your large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides but not fully cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the orzo pasta directly into the pan with the onions and garlic. Stir to coat the pasta with the flavorful oil and aromatics. Pour in the chicken broth and the entire can of diced tomatoes with their juices. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, and add salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything well.
- Return the browned chicken to the pan, submerging it gently in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the lid and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and let it sit off the heat for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully.
- Finish with fresh basil leaves scattered on top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting goodness of your homemade One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Orzo.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
- To prevent orzo from sticking, stir occasionally and use a heavy-bottomed pan.
