Name: One Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Orzo: Cozy & Creamy Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced; 1 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, diced; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2½ cups low-sodium chicken broth; ½ cup milk or half-and-half; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp butter (optional, for richness); Salt and pepper, to taste; Optional: fresh parsley, chopped for garnish; Sun-Dried Tomato & Spinach: Add ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes and two large handfuls of fresh spinach when adding milk and cheese.; Lemon Herb Brightness: Add zest of 1 lemon and 1 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (thyme or oregano) with garlic. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.; Mushroom Lover’s Dream: Sauté 8 oz sliced cremini mushrooms with onions.; Seafood Swap: Replace chicken with peeled raw shrimp or scallops; add in last 5 minutes of cooking.

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One Pot Garlic Parmesan is the ultimate comfort food that transforms weeknight dinners into a cozy experience. This creamy dish, filled with tender chicken and orzo, is not only delicious but also quick to prepare. The garlic and Parmesan flavors meld beautifully, creating a satisfying meal that will leave your family asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Garlic Parmesan

This One Pot Garlic Parmesan dish is a weeknight hero, offering several reasons to love it. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings. Second, the creamy texture and rich flavors create a delightful experience. Third, it’s versatile—add vegetables or switch to shrimp for a new twist. Fourth, it’s a gluten-free option, making it suitable for various diets. Fifth, cleanup is a breeze since everything is made in one pot. Lastly, it provides a wholesome meal that the whole family will enjoy, making it a fantastic choice for an Easy Garlic Parmesan Meal.

Ingredients for One Pot Garlic Parmesan

Gather these items:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced
1 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, diced
1 cup orzo pasta
2½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
½ cup milk or half-and-half
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp butter (optional, for richness)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Sun-Dried Tomato & Spinach: Add ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes and two large handfuls of fresh spinach when adding milk and cheese.
Lemon Herb Brightness: Add zest of 1 lemon and 1 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (thyme or oregano) with garlic. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Mushroom Lover’s Dream: Sauté 8 oz sliced cremini mushrooms with onions.
Seafood Swap: Replace chicken with peeled raw shrimp or scallops; add in last 5 minutes of cooking.

How to Make One Pot Garlic Parmesan Step-by-Step

Step 1: Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Pat chicken dry, season with salt and pepper, and cook 5–7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add diced onion and sauté 2–3 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Toast the Orzo: Stir in dry orzo and toast 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
Step 4: Simmer the Orzo: Pour in chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pan to lift browned bits. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook uncovered 8–10 minutes until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
Step 5: Add Cream & Cheese: Reduce heat to low. Stir in milk or half-and-half, Parmesan cheese, optional butter, and cooked chicken. Simmer 2–3 minutes until sauce is creamy and cohesive. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired. Serve in shallow bowls for the best presentation. Optional: pair with a simple side salad or crusty bread.

Pro Tips for the Perfect One Pot Garlic Parmesan

Keep these in mind:

Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better than pre-grated.
For a creamier sauce, add more milk or half-and-half.
Cooking time may vary based on your stove; keep a close eye on the orzo.
Serve immediately for the best texture; it can thicken as it cools.

Best Ways to Serve One Pot Garlic Parmesan

This dish is delicious on its own, but you can enhance it by serving with:

A simple green salad for freshness.
Garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.
Roasted vegetables for a colorful, nutritious side.

How to Store and Reheat One Pot Garlic Parmesan

To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, place in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess while stirring until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions About One Pot Garlic Parmesan

What is One Pot Garlic Parmesan?

One Pot Garlic Parmesan is a creamy dish that combines tender chicken and orzo pasta with rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese. It’s cooked all in one pot for easy preparation and cleanup.

Can I make One Pot Garlic Parmesan ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little milk for creaminess.

How do I avoid common mistakes with One Pot Garlic Parmesan?

To avoid common pitfalls, make sure to follow the cooking times closely and adjust the liquid if the orzo absorbs too much. Using freshly grated cheese will help achieve the best texture.

Variations of One Pot Garlic Parmesan You Can Try

Get creative with these variations:

For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with mushrooms and spinach.
Add lemon zest and fresh herbs for a refreshing flavor boost.
For a seafood twist, substitute chicken with shrimp during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Incorporate seasonal vegetables for added nutrition and flavor.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage for a delightful twist!

One Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Orzo: Cozy & Creamy Delight - One Pot Garlic Parmesan - additional detail

For more tips on cooking chicken, visit Healthline for nutritional information and cooking methods.