Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo is a comforting dish that brings together the delicious flavors of chicken pot pie with the creamy goodness of orzo pasta. This meal is perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in, and it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Bursting with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy sauce, this dish is a delightful twist on a classic favorite.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo is a great choice for many reasons. First, it is a one-pan meal, which means fewer dishes to wash! Second, it’s quick to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Lastly, this dish is packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a wholesome option for any weeknight dinner. Plus, leftovers are just as delicious!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/4 cups orzo pasta
- 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup milk or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until it is browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and carrots. Cook for 4–5 minutes until they start to soften. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Stir in the orzo and toast it for 1–2 minutes. Then, pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cover the skillet and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in the milk, cooked chicken, frozen peas, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Mix everything well until creamy and heated through.
- Adjust the seasoning if needed, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo
Serve Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo warm in bowls. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or some crusty bread. If you enjoy a bit of freshness, a sprinkle of additional parsley or some lemon zest can brighten up the flavors!
How to Store Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo
If you have leftovers, let the orzo cool down and place it in an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until hot.
Tips to Make Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo
- Make sure not to overcook the orzo, as it can become mushy. Keep an eye on it as it cooks.
- You can add other vegetables like corn or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
- For a spicier kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Variation
You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by using chickpeas instead of chicken and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Simply follow the same steps, and you’ll have a delicious meat-free meal.
FAQs
1. Can I use another type of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, you can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
2. Can I freeze Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo?
It’s not recommended to freeze this dish as the creaminess may change when thawed. However, you can store leftovers in the fridge for a few days.
3. How can I make it gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free orzo pasta and ensure that the chicken broth and any other ingredients are labeled gluten-free.
