Name: One Pot Italian Chicken Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cubed into 1-inch pieces; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 8 ounces white or cremini mushrooms, sliced; 1 cup baby spinach; 1/4 cup finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes; 16 ounces orzo pasta; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese or grated

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 21 reviews

If you love hearty, comforting meals that come together quickly but taste like you spent hours in the kitchen, then this One Pot Italian Chicken Orzo Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine tender chicken cubes mingling with creamy orzo pasta, earthy mushrooms, vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach, all enveloped in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce—made effortlessly in a single pot. It’s a beautiful celebration of Tuscan-inspired flavors that fits perfectly into busy weeknights or casual dinners with friends, delivering maximum flavor without the fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows ingredients laid out on a wooden surface. On the left, there is a white plate with three pieces of raw chicken. Around the plate, there is a clear glass bowl of fresh green spinach leaves, a wedge of light yellow cheese, a small glass jar of dried herbs, and a small glass bowl of golden oil. In the center, a large clear glass bowl holds uncooked orzo rice, and next to it are two small clear bowls of ground seasonings—one light brown and the other black and white mixed. On the right, there is a clear glass bowl with sliced white mushrooms and two glass measuring pitchers filled with light yellow-orange broth and white cream, all placed on the wooden surface which is replaced by white marbled texture in the description. The arrangement is neat and inviting, showing fresh and simple ingredients for cooking. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe calls for a simple but wonderful lineup of ingredients, each bringing its own character and charm to the final dish. The beauty of this One Pot Italian Chicken Orzo Recipe is how the ingredients blend seamlessly, creating textures and tastes that are fresh, savory, and just a little bit indulgent.

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast: Cut into 1-inch cubes for quick and even cooking that stays juicy.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the chicken perfectly.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances every flavor in the dish; don’t skip this essential seasoning.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle warmth and depth without the fuss of fresh garlic.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle kick for balance.
4 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid base that cooks the orzo and infuses it with savory goodness.
2 tablespoons Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that transports the dish straight to Italy.
16 ounces orzo: The star pasta that cooks beautifully in one pot and soaks up all the delicious juices.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates a wonderfully creamy sauce that dresses every bite.
8 ounces white or cremini mushrooms: Add an earthy, meaty texture and pair marvelously with the chicken.
1 cup baby spinach: Offers a tender green pop of freshness and nutrition.
1/4 cup finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes: Brings bold, tangy sweetness that brightens up the whole dish.
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce, adding salty richness and a hint of nuttiness.

How to Make One Pot Italian Chicken Orzo Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Brown the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken breasts into uniform 1-inch pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and stay wonderfully juicy. Heat your olive oil over medium-high heat in a large deep skillet, then add the chicken seasoned with salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Let it brown for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally so every piece gets a beautiful golden crust that locks in the flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms

Once the chicken looks nicely browned, toss in the sliced mushrooms. Mushrooms soak up the cooking fat and develop a rich, deep flavor while softening perfectly. Cook them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, so they become tender and jam-packed with flavor that blends nicely with the chicken.

Step 3: Add Broth, Seasoning, and Orzo

Pour in the chicken broth along with the Italian seasoning, which adds a fragrant Tuscan touch to your dish. Then add the orzo, which will absorb the savory broth and swell into a tender, flavorful pasta. Crank up the heat to bring everything to a boil, preparing for the orzo to cook.

Step 4: Simmer Until Orzo Is Al Dente

Lower the heat to medium, cover your skillet, and let the orzo simmer until just tender—usually about 9 to 10 minutes. Don’t forget to stir occasionally so the orzo doesn’t stick to the pan. This step is where the magic happens as the pasta swells with flavor, soaking in the broth and spices around it.

Step 5: Stir in Cream, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

When the orzo is al dente, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, baby spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes. The cream brings velvety richness, while the spinach wilts into tender green leaves, and the sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of tangy brightness that livens up the entire dish. Cook for about a minute to meld the flavors and soften the greens.

Step 6: Finish with Parmesan Cheese

Finally, remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese. Stir thoroughly until it melts and forms a silky, cheesy sauce that clings to every morsel of chicken and orzo. This final touch seals the deal, giving you a creamy, indulgent meal that’s irresistible straight off the stove.

How to Serve One Pot Italian Chicken Orzo Recipe

A large white pot filled with creamy yellow rice mixed with pieces of light brown chicken, dark brown mushroom slices, bright green spinach leaves, and small red bits of sun-dried tomato. A wooden spoon rests inside the pot, stirring the creamy mixture, showing a thick and soft texture. The pot is placed on a dark wooden surface next to a wedge of pale yellow cheese with a bit of grated cheese scattered nearby. Around the pot, there are fresh green spinach leaves, silver spoons, and a mustard yellow cloth napkin. The whole scene is bright and warm with natural light, emphasizing the creamy and rich texture of the dish. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your serving experience, garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and fresh aroma. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice can add a bright finishing note that complements the creamy base beautifully. For those who love a touch of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes atop for a gentle kick.

Side Dishes

This meal shines on its own but pairs marvelously with crisp, refreshing salads like a classic Caesar or a simple mix of arugula tossed with lemon vinaigrette. Garlic bread or warm focaccia can also be perfect companions to mop up any leftover sauce on your plate. For a vegetable side, consider roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans to add crunch and color.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve the dish family-style in your favorite large rustic skillet or ceramic baking dish. You can also portion it into individual bowls garnished with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a cozy dinner vibe. If you’re entertaining, pair it with a glass of Chianti or Pinot Grigio to bring the Italian dinner feeling full circle.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your leftover One Pot Italian Chicken Orzo cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will keep well for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy this flavorful dish again without losing any creaminess or texture.

Freezing

While this meal is best enjoyed fresh to fully appreciate the creamy sauce and tender veggies, you can freeze leftovers if necessary. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers and use within 1 to 2 months. Thaw thoroughly in the refrigerator before reheating to help maintain texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of broth or cream if it seems dry. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, to ensure even warming without curdling the sauce. This keeps the dish creamy and delicious, just like when it was first made.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs add a bit more richness and stay tender during cooking. Just be sure to cut them into uniform pieces so they cook evenly along with the orzo.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the heavy cream for coconut cream or a plant-based alternative, and swap Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a similar umami flavor. The texture will be slightly different but still tasty.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?

You can omit them or replace with diced roasted red peppers or cherry tomatoes for a splash of color and mild sweetness. Each option adds its own unique twist while keeping the dish vibrant.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Orzo works beautifully because of its size and texture, but small pasta shapes like acini di pepe, ditalini, or even small shells will work fine. Adjust cooking times according to the pasta package instructions.

How do I know when the orzo is perfectly cooked?

Orzo should be tender but still have a slight bite—al dente. Taste test near the end of the cooking time to avoid overcooking, which can make it mushy. Remember, it will also continue to absorb sauce as it rests.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so satisfying about a meal that tastes like a dream but only takes one pot and under an hour to make. This One Pot Italian Chicken Orzo Recipe checks all the boxes—comforting, flavorful, and downright delicious. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, or simply want a fuss-free dinner that impresses, this recipe is the perfect go-to. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience firsthand just how cozy and vibrant one pot cooking can be!