One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo

One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. This one-pan wonder combines tender chicken, creamy orzo pasta, and vibrant pesto, creating a flavorful experience with minimal cleanup. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility; it can easily adapt to your flavor preferences while remaining simple and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With everything cooked in one pan, cleanup is a breeze, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of chicken, pesto, and fresh vegetables creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the veggies or add your favorite herbs to suit your personal tastes.
• Nutritious Meal: Packed with protein from the chicken and nutrients from cherry tomatoes and basil, this dish is both delicious and wholesome.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This recipe holds up well in the fridge, making it great for meal prep or enjoying as leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

To make your One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking everything in one pan; it distributes heat evenly.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife speeds up prep time, ensuring even cuts for consistent cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your dish.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• Chicken Breasts: 1.5 lbs, boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces. Provides the lean protein base of the dish and becomes incredibly tender during cooking.

For the Orzo

• Orzo Pasta: 1 cup (about 8 ounces). This rice-shaped pasta cooks beautifully in one pan, absorbing flavors and creating a creamy texture.
• Chicken Broth: 2 cups, low sodium. The cooking liquid for the orzo, infusing it with savory chicken flavor and helping to create a light sauce.

Flavor Enhancers

• Pesto: ½ cup, store-bought or homemade basil pesto. The star flavor of the dish, adding herbaceousness, garlic notes, and a vibrant green color.
• Cherry Tomatoes: 1 pint, halved. Adds a burst of sweetness and acidity, balancing the richness of the pesto and chicken.
• Red Onion: ½ medium, thinly sliced. Provides a mild onion flavor that complements the other ingredients without being overpowering.
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced. Essential aromatic that enhances the overall flavor profile and pairs perfectly with pesto and chicken.

Finishing Touches

• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Used for sautéing the vegetables and browning the chicken.
• Lemon: 1, juiced. Fresh lemon juice brightens flavors and adds a zesty finish to the dish.
• Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup, grated; plus more for serving. Adds a salty umami flavor and a lovely cheesy finish.
• Fresh Basil: ¼ cup, chopped (optional). Adds a fresh aromatic touch that enhances the pesto flavor.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors.
• Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional). Adds a subtle kick of heat if you enjoy a little spice.

How to Make One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by prepping all your ingredients:
1. Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces.
2. Halve the cherry tomatoes.
3. Thinly slice the red onion.
4. Mince the garlic.
5. Measure out the orzo, chicken broth, pesto, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Juice the lemon and chop fresh basil (if using).

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Add sliced red onion; cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
2. Add minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes; cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Add chicken pieces to skillet:
1. Season with salt and black pepper.
2. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides but not fully cooked through.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

Pour chicken broth into skillet:
1. Scrape any browned bits from bottom of pan (this adds extra flavor).
2. Stir in orzo pasta and halved cherry tomatoes; bring mixture to boil.
3. Reduce heat to low; cover tightly with lid or foil; simmer for 15-20 minutes until orzo is tender.

Step 5: Stir in Pesto and Finish

Once orzo is cooked:
1. Remove skillet from heat; uncover it carefully.
2. Stir in pesto and lemon juice until well combined.

Step 6: Add Parmesan Cheese

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese:
1. Taste; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
2. Garnish with fresh chopped basil (if using) and extra Parmesan cheese.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Serve your One-Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo hot:
Enjoy on its own or with a side salad or crusty bread!

How to Serve One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo

One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo is a versatile and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Casual Plating

• Serve directly from the pan for a rustic feel. This makes for easy cleanup and a communal dining experience.

Individual Bowls

• Portion the orzo into individual bowls, garnishing each with fresh basil and extra Parmesan for a personal touch.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair with slices of crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce, enhancing the meal’s heartiness.

Side Salad

• Serve alongside a light, refreshing salad made of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette for a balanced meal.

Lemon Wedges

• Include lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice enhances the flavors and adds brightness to each bite.

How to Perfect One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo

To make the most out of your One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality pesto can significantly enhance the dish’s flavor.
• Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the chicken while browning; it should be cooked just enough to finish cooking with the orzo without becoming dry.
• Stir Occasionally: Stirring during cooking prevents sticking and ensures even cooking of both orzo and chicken.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a creamier sauce, stir in additional chicken broth or pesto at the end to reach your desired consistency.
• Personalize It: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste before serving. Adjust seasonings according to your preference for salt and pepper.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo

Pairing your One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread slathered in garlic butter adds crunch and flavor that pairs beautifully with the orzo.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies drizzled with olive oil and roasted until tender provide a nutritious contrast.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing side that complements the main dish.
4. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus seasoned with salt and olive oil brings elegance and flavor balance.
5. Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad dressed in vinegar adds crispness and acidity to cut through the richness of the dish.
6. Grilled Zucchini: Slices of zucchini grilled until charred bring both smoky flavor and vibrant color to your plate.
7. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad of mixed greens tossed with lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and lightness.
8. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter provides a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with creamy orzo.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for that can affect the final dish.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Aim to brown the chicken until it’s just cooked through, as it will finish cooking with the orzo.
• Skipping the Scraping Step: Not scrapping the browned bits from the pan can result in a less flavorful dish. Always scrape up those bits after adding broth for extra taste.
• Neglecting to Stir: Failing to stir occasionally while cooking can lead to sticking. Make sure to give everything a good stir during cooking for even results.
• Using Too Much Liquid: Adding too much broth can make the dish soupy rather than creamy. Stick to the recommended amount of chicken broth for perfect consistency.
• Not Adjusting Seasonings: Forgetting to taste and adjust seasonings can lead to a bland meal. Always taste before serving and tweak salt and pepper as needed.
• Rushing the Resting Period: Cutting into the dish too soon after cooking can cause it to fall apart. Let it rest briefly before serving for better texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo

• Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and consume within 2-3 months.

Reheating One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo.

Can I use other types of pasta besides orzo?

You can use other small pasta shapes, like ditalini or small shells. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the pasta used.

How can I customize my One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor. You can also try different herbs in your pesto!

Is One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo healthy?

Yes! This recipe includes lean protein from chicken, vegetables, and whole grains from orzo, making it a balanced meal option.

What if I don’t have pesto?

If you don’t have pesto on hand, you can make a quick alternative by blending fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, nuts (like pine nuts or walnuts), and Parmesan cheese together.

Can I make this meal vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with chickpeas or your favorite plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo is an effortless yet delicious weeknight dinner that brings together vibrant flavors in one dish. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try for a delightful meal that’s sure to impress!