One-Pot Buttery Garlic Chicken Orzo (Print Version)

Tender chicken and buttery orzo blend with garlic, peas, and herbs in a creamy, easy one-pot meal.

# Components:

→ Chicken

01 - 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
02 - 1/2 tsp kosher salt
03 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

→ Aromatics & Base

04 - 3 tbsp unsalted butter
05 - 1 tbsp olive oil
06 - 4 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 1 small yellow onion, finely diced

→ Orzo & Liquid

08 - 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
09 - 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
10 - 1/2 cup whole milk or half-and-half

→ Vegetables & Herbs

11 - 1 cup frozen peas
12 - 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
13 - 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
14 - Zest of 1 lemon
15 - Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

# Directions:

01 - Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
02 - In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, melt 2 tbsp butter with olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sauté until lightly golden and just cooked through, 5–6 minutes. Remove chicken to a plate and set aside.
03 - In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tbsp butter. Add onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
04 - Add orzo and toast, stirring, for 1–2 minutes.
05 - Pour in the chicken broth and milk. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
06 - Reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10–12 minutes, or until orzo is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
07 - Stir in the peas and cooked chicken. Cook 2–3 minutes until peas are heated through and chicken is warmed.
08 - Remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan, parsley, and lemon zest. Season with additional pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 40 minutes from start to finish
  • Uses everyday ingredients you likely have on hand
  • Everything cooks in one pot for easy cleanup
  • Creamy and comforting without being heavy
  • Perfect balance of protein and carbs for a complete meal
02 -
  • This dish reheats beautifully the next day as the flavors continue to develop overnight
  • Each serving provides a balanced meal with protein, carbs and vegetables
  • The starch from the orzo naturally creates a creamy sauce without adding heavy cream
  • The recipe is incredibly versatile and forgiving for beginners
03 -
  • For maximum flavor development, season at every stage rather than just at the end
  • Use the cooking time listed as a guideline only, as different brands of orzo may require slightly different cooking times
  • When adding the Parmesan, sprinkle it gradually while stirring to ensure it melts evenly without clumping

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