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Chicken Orzo (30-Minutes, One-Pan)

Chicken Orzo (30-Minutes, One-Pan)
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This dish was born on a busy weeknight—when time was short but comfort was needed. With juicy chicken, creamy orzo, and a burst of tomatoes and pesto, it’s a full-flavored meal made in just one pan. It’s the kind of recipe that makes dinner feel special, even on the busiest days.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

1.5 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt & freshly ground black pepper

2 tbsp olive oil

For the Orzo:

1 cup orzo, uncooked

5 garlic cloves, minced

1 tbsp olive oil

10 oz cherry tomatoes, halved

2 cups chicken stock

¼ tsp salt

5 oz fresh spinach

½ cup heavy cream

¼ cup basil pesto

Instructions

Season Chicken: Rub chicken with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Sear Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Sauté Garlic & Tomatoes: In the same pan, add 1 tbsp oil, garlic, and cherry tomatoes. Cook for 2–3 minutes.

Cook Orzo: Add orzo, chicken stock, and salt. Simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 8–10 minutes until orzo is tender.

Finish: Stir in spinach, cream, and pesto. Return chicken to pan and cook 2 more minutes.

Serve: Slice chicken and serve over creamy orzo. Garnish with extra basil if desired.

Notes

Creamy, herby, and made in just one pan—this is your weeknight dinner hero.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tastychow.com/chicken-orzo-30-minutes-one-pan/