Description
One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo is a delightful and effortless dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy orzo pasta, and vibrant pesto in one convenient pan. Ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this recipe offers a flavor-packed meal that requires minimal cleanup. The juicy chicken absorbs the aromatic pesto while the orzo cooks to perfection in savory chicken broth, making it a satisfying option for any occasion. With its versatility, you can easily customize the ingredients to suit your taste preferences, ensuring that every bite is deliciously enjoyable.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup basil pesto
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- ½ medium red onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- Optional: Fresh basil and red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prep all ingredients: cut chicken into pieces, halve tomatoes, slice onion, mince garlic, and measure out other ingredients.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté onion until softened, then add garlic and optional red pepper flakes.
- Add chicken pieces; season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned on all sides but not fully cooked.
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in orzo and cherry tomatoes; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until orzo is tender.
- Remove from heat; stir in pesto and lemon juice until combined.
- Mix in Parmesan cheese, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve hot with extra cheese and fresh basil.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 415
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg