There’s something magical about a one-pot meal, isn’t there? Fewer dishes to clean and a dinner that practically cooks itself — total win-win! This creamy chicken and mushroom orzo is one of those recipes you’ll want on repeat. Tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a silky Parmesan-kissed sauce come together in under 40 minutes. It’s hearty, comforting, and oh-so-flavorful. 💛
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One pot, less mess: Everything cooks in a single pan, saving you time and cleanup.
- Cozy comfort food: Creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory flavors.
- Weeknight-friendly: Ready in about 35 minutes.
- Family-approved: Even picky eaters will devour it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we get cooking, let’s gather our ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 ½ cups uncooked orzo pasta
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Equipment
- Large deep skillet or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics
In the same pan, add the onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, releasing that irresistible aroma. 😍
3. Add Mushrooms
Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become golden brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Toast the Orzo
Add the dry orzo to the pan and stir to coat with the flavorful base. Toast for 1–2 minutes for a nuttier, richer taste.
5. Simmer with Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Nestle the seared chicken back into the pan. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
6. Creamy Finish
Stir in the milk or cream, spinach, and Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce becomes creamy.
7. Taste and Serve
Adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper, if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and more Parmesan. Serve warm and enjoy every creamy, cozy bite! 🍴
Pro Tips for Perfect Orzo
- Don’t skip toasting: Toasting the orzo deepens its flavor.
- Use fresh Parmesan: It melts smoother than pre-shredded cheese.
- Swap the greens: Kale or arugula work beautifully instead of spinach.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is rich and filling on its own, but you can pair it with:
- A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or crusty baguette for dipping
- Steamed broccoli or roasted veggies
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm on the stove with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
- Freeze: Not ideal, as the dairy may separate when thawed.
Conclusion
When life gets busy, this one-pot chicken and mushroom orzo swoops in like a culinary hug. With simple ingredients, minimal cleanup, and a comforting flavor profile, it’s destined to become a family favorite. 🥰
