Name: Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 large yellow onion, diced (about 1 ½ cups); 1 rib celery, finely diced (about ½ cup); 1 cup frozen peas and diced carrots blend, or ½ cup each, thawed; 2 teaspoons garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated; Parmesan, grated, for garnish; 1 ½ cups orzo pasta, uncooked; 3 cups chicken broth; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon dried rosemary; ¼ teaspoon dried thyme; 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded; Chopped parsley, for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 78 reviews

There is nothing quite as comforting as a dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and pasta in a luscious sauce, all coming together effortlessly in one pot. This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo Recipe is exactly that kind of meal—rich, cozy, and brimming with flavor. Ready in just 30 minutes, it transforms simple ingredients into a bowl of warmth that tastes like a loving hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re craving a quick dinner or something special to share, this dish hits all the right notes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This image shows a flat lay of various cooking ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. In the center, there is a white bowl filled with pieces of cooked chicken with golden brown edges. Around it, starting from the top center and moving clockwise, there is a wooden bowl full of grated cheese, a clear glass measuring cup with yellow broth, a small bowl with two pieces of butter, a bowl with chopped green celery, a smaller bowl with minced garlic, a white dish holding salt, pepper, and herbs, a small white bowl with mixed peas and small carrot cubes, a dark bowl of chopped white onions, a small brown bowl with uncooked orzo pasta spilling a few grains, and a glass cup of white milk. At the top left, fresh green parsley leaves add color. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these ingredients is the first step toward making a meal that’s both simple and sensational. Each one plays a crucial role: butter for richness, fresh aromatics like onion and celery for depth, vibrant veggies for color and sweetness, and the orzo which brings a delicate pasta texture that’s perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided: Adds lusciousness and helps sauté the vegetables beautifully.
1 large yellow onion, diced: Offers a subtle sweetness and essential aromatic base.
1 rib celery, finely diced: Brings crisp freshness that balances the creaminess.
1 cup frozen peas and diced carrots blend (or ½ cup each, thawed): Brightens the dish with sweet, tender veggies.
2 teaspoons garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with savory warmth.
1 ½ cups orzo pasta, uncooked: Provides a tender yet chewy texture perfect for soaking up sauce.
3 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid base that cooks the orzo and enriches the dish.
2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded: Packed with tender protein and pre-cooked for convenience.
1 cup heavy cream: Gives the dish its famously creamy, luscious texture.
1 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated: Adds tangy, nutty depth and melts into silky perfection.
½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Provides gentle heat and balance.
½ teaspoon dried rosemary: Earthy, fragrant herb that complements the chicken beautifully.
¼ teaspoon dried thyme: Adds subtle, woodsy notes to lift the flavor.
Chopped parsley, for garnish: Lends a fresh, green pop for presentation and a bright finish.
Parmesan, grated, for garnish: A final sprinkle of indulgence that ties it all together.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo Recipe

Step 1: Build the flavor base

Start by melting one tablespoon of butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and celery, letting them cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until they soften and release their natural sweetness. This step is essential as it forms the aromatic foundation that elevates the entire dish.

Step 2: Add the veggies and garlic

Next, stir in the peas and carrots blend, cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes so the veggies warm through but keep their texture. Then, add the minced garlic and let it cook for a minute more, just until fragrant. The gentle garlic infusion is a secret weapon that brings a cozy depth to the sauce.

Step 3: Toast the orzo

Now add the remaining two tablespoons of butter and the uncooked orzo into the pot. Stir and let the orzo toast for about three minutes until it turns a lovely light golden color. This toasting step adds a delicious nuttiness and helps the pasta maintain its bite after cooking.

Step 4: Simmer with broth and seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth and season with salt, pepper, rosemary, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the broth has been absorbed. This creates that perfect creamy base you crave in a one-pot comfort meal.

Step 5: Stir in chicken, cream, and cheese

Finally, fold the shredded rotisserie chicken, heavy cream, and freshly grated parmesan into the pot. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring continuously until everything blends into a rich, creamy sauce warmed through. If the dish feels too thick, adding a splash of broth helps loosen it right up while maintaining that silky texture.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo Recipe

A white pot filled with a creamy mixture of shredded light-colored chicken, small green peas, and small orange carrot pieces mixed throughout a soft, rice-like or orzo texture, all coated in a pale yellow creamy sauce with small green herb pieces sprinkled on top. The pot rests on a white marbled surface with some uncooked grains scattered nearby and a folded grey cloth partially visible. A small part of a white plate and a fork are seen above the pot. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped parsley generously over the top. This adds a fresh, herbaceous note and a beautiful pop of green that makes the dish feel bright and inviting. Don’t forget an extra grating of parmesan cheese for that signature cheesy finish that brings a little sparkle to each bite.

Side Dishes

Although this recipe shines on its own, pairing it with a crisp green salad or some roasted Brussels sprouts adds lovely contrast in texture and flavor. Lightly buttered steamed green beans would also complement the dish’s richness without overwhelming the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress, serve this creamy chicken pot pie orzo in individual oven-safe ramekins topped with a crisp parmesan crust under the broiler for a couple of minutes. Alternatively, scatter toasted pine nuts on top for a delightful crunch, or swirl in a spoonful of pesto for a herbaceous twist that will keep everyone guessing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo Recipe holds up wonderfully in the fridge. Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store for up to 3 days. The flavors actually have a chance to meld even more, making the next-day meal all the more luscious.

Freezing

Because of the creamy texture, freezing is possible but requires care. Portion the orzo into freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve the sauce’s silky consistency. A quick stir during reheating prevents separation.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth or cream to bring it back to that perfect creamy texture. Microwave reheating works in a pinch but stirring halfway through helps avoid hot spots.

FAQs

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh peas and carrots work beautifully in this recipe. Just dice the carrots finely to match the tenderness of frozen ones, and adjust cooking times slightly to ensure they become perfectly tender without turning mushy.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. For a dairy-free alternative, a full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream can provide creaminess while adding a subtle different flavor profile.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and replace the shredded chicken with sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or a hearty plant-based protein. The parmesan and cream will keep the dish luxuriously creamy and satisfying.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can prepare the base ingredients ahead of time and refrigerate separately. When ready to serve, combine everything and finish cooking with the cream and cheese to maintain that signature creaminess and fresh flavor.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Swap the orzo pasta for a gluten-free pasta alternative like quinoa or rice-shaped pasta. Make sure to check the broth and other ingredients for hidden gluten to keep the dish safe and delicious for gluten-sensitive diners.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm embrace on a plate. It’s incredibly easy to make, wonderfully comforting, and offers so many ways to customize. I can’t recommend it enough for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a hearty, satisfying meal that comes together in a single pot. Give it a try—you’ll quickly see why it’s one of my absolute favorite recipes to share with friends and family!