Amazing One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo for Cozy Dinners

Simple Chicken & Pesto Delight

Growing up in sunny Florida, I have fond memories of my time in the kitchen, especially beside my beloved mama and wise abuela, mastering the art of flavor. I learned that food is not merely sustenance; it’s a medium for sharing love and laughter. Each stir of the pot and each dish served was steeped in stories, connecting us to Oaxaca’s vibrant markets and comforting traditions. My culinary journey celebrates these rich flavors. With a recipe like One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo, you can create delicious memories too, as the warm aroma fills your home and brings everyone together.

Quick Recipe Overview:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Italian-Mexican Fusion
Best Season: Year-round

What Makes This Dish Shine

Flavor Explosion: The delightful combination of basil pesto and tender chicken offers a heartwarming explosion of flavors in every bite, making it a memorable dish for any occasion.
One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in a single pan, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you more quality time with loved ones while enjoying your delicious meal.
Quick and Nourishing: This dish comes together in about 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need a healthy dinner on the table fast.
Customizable: The beauty of this recipe is how easily it can be tailored. So whether you’re a picky eater or an adventurous foodie, there’s something in this dish for everyone.

Ingredients to Gather

Chicken Breasts: 1.5 lbs, boneless, skinless, cut into 1-inch pieces. These provide a tender protein base, ensuring every bite is juicy and satisfying.
Orzo Pasta: 1 cup (about 8 ounces). This delightful rice-shaped pasta beautifully absorbs flavors and contributes to a creamy texture in every forkful.
Chicken Broth: 2 cups, low sodium. This essential cooking liquid infuses the orzo with savory chicken goodness and helps create a light sauce.
Pesto: ½ cup, store-bought or homemade basil pesto. The star of the show, delivering vibrant herb flavors, garlic overtones, and that signature green hue.
Cherry Tomatoes: 1 pint, halved. These add a sweet burst of flavor and acidity, perfectly balancing the richness of the chicken and pesto.
Red Onion: ½ medium, thinly sliced. A mild flavor that complements the dish, adding depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced. An essential aromatic that enhances the overall flavor profile, ensuring deliciousness in every bite.
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Used for sautéing, it adds richness and prevents sticking, making cooking effortless.
Lemon: 1, juiced. Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a zesty finish, taking the dish to the next level.
Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup, grated, plus more for serving. This umami-rich cheese adds a lovely cheesy finish, elevating the overall taste experience.
Fresh Basil: ¼ cup, chopped, for garnish (optional). A finishing touch, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. The essential seasonings bring all the flavors together, creating harmony on your palate.
Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional). Adds a gentle kick for those who love a hint of heat.

Ingredient Insights

Chicken Breasts: Ensure they’re fresh for best tenderness or consider using thighs for extra flavor.
Orzo Pasta: Keep an eye on cooking time; it’ll swell and soften quickly, soaking in those delicious broth flavors.
Chicken Broth: Low sodium is ideal for better control of seasoning; you can always add salt later.
Pesto: Store-bought is convenient, but a homemade version will elevate the dish’s quality and flavor.
Cherry Tomatoes: Look for bright, firm tomatoes for optimal sweetness.
Red Onion: Sweet onions can be a milder substitute for a more delicate flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Directions

Prepare the Ingredients: Start by prepping all the ingredients. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. Mince the garlic, measure out the orzo, chicken broth, pesto, and Parmesan cheese. Juice the lemon and chop the fresh basil, if using.
Sauté Aromatics and Chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced red onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Introduce the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, stirring for an additional minute until fragrant.
Brown the Chicken: Incorporate the chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned but not fully cooked. It’s fine if it still has a slight pink hue, as it will finish cooking with the orzo.
Add Remaining Ingredients: Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any golden bits stuck to the bottom for added flavor. Stir in the orzo and halved cherry tomatoes. Bring this mix to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet tightly, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes until the orzo absorbs most of the liquid, stirring occasionally.
Stir in Pesto and Finish: After the orzo is tender, remove the skillet from heat and uncover it. Mix in the pesto and lemon juice until the ingredients are fully combined, creating a creamy sauce that envelops the orzo and chicken.
Add Parmesan and Serve: Stir in the grated Parmesan, adjusting with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh basil (if using) and more Parmesan cheese for an extra touch.
Serve Immediately: Dish out your One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo while it’s hot and aromatic. Enjoy it solo or pair it with a simple side salad or crusty bread for a comforting meal.

Pointers for Delicious Results

Mind Your Heat: Maintain moderate heat to avoid burning the garlic and to ensure even cooking of the chicken.
Seasoning is Key: Taste as you go and adjust seasoning for a balanced dish.
Pasta Texture: Keep an eye on the orzo; it cooks rapidly and should be tender yet slightly al dente for the best texture.

Creative Variations

Vegan Option: Substitute chicken with grilled mushrooms or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a plant-based delight.
Spicy Twist: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce alongside the garlic for an extra kick of heat.
Mild Flavor: For family-friendly appeal, skip the red pepper flakes altogether and use sundried tomatoes instead.
Regional Flair: Introduce regional influence by swapping pesto with a local herb blend or using different pasta types, like fusilli or penne.

Pair It With

Serve your flavorful One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo with a zesty salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette or a glass of crisp white wine. For dessert, a light sorbet could finish the meal beautifully.

Prep Ahead and Freezer Strategies

To simplify dinner prep, you can cook this dish ahead of time. Made it earlier in the week, then cool and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. For longer storage, place cooled portions in freezer bags, eliminating air, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply defrost and microwave or warm in a skillet with a splash of broth to maintain its creamy texture.

Presenting Your Delicious Meal

For a delightful presentation, serve this orzo in a shallow bowl topped with additional Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh basil. A sliced lemon wedge on the side not only looks appealing but allows guests to customize their dish with a pop of citrus.

Essential Kitchen Insights

Pasta Cooking Tips: Stir the orzo occasionally while it simmers to prevent it from sticking together.
Leftover Magic: Leftover One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo can be transformed into a delicious cold pasta salad with additional veggies.
Low-Prep Cleanup: Use disposable parchment for roasting pan lids to cut down on cleanup time.

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

Fridge Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating Methods: For best texture, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth to retain creaminess. The microwave is also an option, but stir halfway through to ensure even warmth.

Commonly Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat orzo?
Certainly! Whole wheat orzo will provide a nuttier taste and extra fiber.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the juices run clear.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers would integrate beautifully.
What can I do if the pasta is overcooked?
If the pasta becomes mushy, try adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a spoonful of cream to refresh the texture.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes! It holds up well when stored properly, making it perfect for future meals.
How can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free orzo or substitute with quinoa for an equally delicious alternative.

Nourishing Summary

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 450
Protein: 30g
Carbs: 45g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g

Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary.

Heartfelt Note

Cooking is an expression of love, and sharing a meal created with care brings joy that transcends generations. This One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo encapsulates that joy, reminiscent of family gatherings where laughter and flavor intertwine. Cherish each moment spent in your kitchen, as it is within these walls that memories are made and traditions continue.

Ending on a Delicious Note

Embrace the ease of creating this One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo for your next family dinner. Packed with heartwarming flavors and delightful simplicity, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Dive into this recipe, share it with loved ones, and don’t forget to pin it for later! Cooking is a celebration, and everyone deserves to partake in the joy it brings.

One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo

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Author: emma
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A heartwarming dish that combines tender chicken and creamy orzo pasta infused with vibrant basil pesto, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup orzo pasta (about 8 ounces)
2 cups low sodium chicken broth
½ cup basil pesto
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
½ medium red onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lemon, juiced
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the ingredients by cutting the chicken, halving the cherry tomatoes, slicing the red onion, and mincing the garlic. Measure out the orzo, chicken broth, pesto, and Parmesan cheese, juice the lemon, and chop the fresh basil if using.
In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced red onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, stirring for an additional minute.
Incorporate the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned but not fully cooked.
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any golden bits from the bottom. Stir in the orzo and halved cherry tomatoes, bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes until orzo absorbs most of the liquid, stirring occasionally.
Remove from heat, stir in the pesto and lemon juice until fully combined.
Stir in the grated Parmesan, adjust seasoning if necessary, and garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Serve immediately while hot, enjoy it as is or with a side salad or crusty bread.

Notes

This dish can be customized with different proteins or vegetables. Leftovers can be reheated on the stovetop with a splash of broth.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: One-Pan Cooking
Cuisine: Italian-Mexican Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 80mg