Browse through my family meals and you will see that I am a huge fan of one pot meals. After becoming a mom, it’s really the only type of cooking I have the time and energy for. Just dump everything into one pot, stir, and dinner is served! I love it so much that I even dedicated an entire cookbook to it! Right now, let’s talk about orzo pasta, one of my family’s most beloved pantry staples. It’s just as versatile as rice, cooks up fast, and has a creamy, buttery texture that my kids especially adore! For this quick weeknight meal, orzo gets cooked alongside chicken and vegetables and simmered in a creamy sauce that will remind you of risotto (you have to try this quinoa risotto also!) or a very thick chicken noodle soup with pasta. Psst this Instant Pot Chicken and Noodles with frozen veggies is a must-try also! This one-pot meal is creamy, cozy, filling, and so delicious! A perfect meal for the entire family, including babies! 50+ Quick and Healthy Family Meals
Ingredients
I am highlighting just the ones that need further explanation. The complete list is in the recipe card below.
Orzo – although it looks like a rice, orzo is actually pasta! Chicken breast – can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Cut into bite size pieces. And here are more kid-friendly chicken recipes to try. Vegetables – I like to use the onion, celery, and carrots but feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables. Cheese – We always have a block of cheddar cheese so that’s what I’m using here but feel free to use any delicious cheese you prefer. Parmesan cheese, mozzarella, ricotta…all welcomed!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Variations
Dairy-free? Use any dairy-free butter, milk, and cheese or nutritional yeast. Vegetarian? You can use vegetable broth and instead of chicken, add a 15 ounce can of beans (I recommend white beans) along with broth and milk.
Tips for Success
If you have some leftover rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken, add it in step 3. You shouldn’t need it but if all the liquid gets absorbed before the orzo is done cooking, add an additional 1/2 cup of broth or water. Be sure to stir occasionally so the orzo doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot. Use good quality cheese and grate it yourself. It will melt better leaving you with ooey gooey yumminess in each bite.
Serving Suggestions
This is a complete meal on its own but you can also serve alongside:
Moist cornbread Broccoli Roasted Frozen Brussels sprouts Cooked Frozen green peas Frozen green beans
Storage
Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. To reheat, microwave briefly or in a skillet with a little bit of liquid (water or broth). If intending to freeze some, set aside a portion without the cheese. Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
More One Pot Pasta Dish
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