Finding a recipe that’s both delicious and easy to prepare can be a lifesaver during busy weeknights.
This one-pan Chicken Orzo meal ticks all the boxes. With succulent chicken thighs and creamy orzo cooked with fresh spinach, it’s not only flavorful but also nutritious.
Plus, it’s all made in one pan, which means less cleanup!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs (skin on)
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
For the Orzo:
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo
- 2 cups spinach
Directions
Step 1: Marinade the Chicken
Start by preparing the marinade.
In a bowl, mix the black pepper, dried thyme, dried parsley, garlic powder, and salt with the olive oil and lemon juice.
The lemon juice not only adds a refreshing citrus flavor but also helps to tenderize the chicken.
Coat the chicken thighs thoroughly with this mixture and let them marinate for about 10 minutes.
This brief marination is all you need because the lemon juice speeds up the process.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large pan over medium-high heat.
Once hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the pan.
Let them cook for about 6 minutes without moving them; this will give the skin a beautiful, crispy texture.
Flip the chicken and cook the other side for another 5 minutes.
Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Orzo Base
Lower the heat to medium-low and add the diced red onion and minced garlic to the same pan.
Sauté them for a few minutes until they become fragrant and slightly translucent.
Then, add the orzo to the pan.
Toast the orzo for about a minute, which will give it a nutty flavor.
Step 4: Deglaze and Cook the Orzo
Pour in the chicken stock, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
These bits add incredible flavor to the dish.
Bring the mixture to a simmer and let the orzo cook for about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Add the Spinach
After the orzo has simmered for 5 minutes, add in the spinach.
The spinach will wilt quickly and blend into the creamy orzo.
Continue cooking for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
The orzo will absorb the chicken stock and become tender and creamy.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Return the chicken thighs to the pan, nestling them into the orzo and spinach mixture.
Let them cook together for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Serve the dish hot, and for an extra kick, sprinkle some crushed chili flakes on top.
Conclusion
This one-pan Chicken Orzo recipe is a perfect weeknight meal that combines convenience with rich, satisfying flavors.
The combination of tender chicken, creamy orzo, and fresh spinach makes for a wholesome and delicious dinner that will quickly become a family favorite.
Enjoy!