Are you looking for a delicious and flavorful way to add some excitement to your meals? Look no further than these 20 mouth-watering orzo recipes featuring chicken and fresh herbs! Orzo, a type of pasta made from wheat flour, has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its nutty flavor and versatile texture. When paired with juicy chicken and fragrant herbs, the results are simply stunning.
In this article, we’ll be exploring a variety of orzo recipes that showcase the beauty of combining this tasty pasta with chicken and fresh herbs. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, there’s something for everyone in this collection of 20 scrumptious orzo recipes.
Lemon Garlic Chicken Orzo Bake
A bright and citrusy twist on a classic comfort dish, this Lemon Garlic Chicken Orzo Bake is perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s both easy and impressive.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, chicken, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Orzo
This creamy pasta dish is a comforting blend of chicken, parmesan cheese, and orzo, perfect for a weeknight dinner. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 8 ounces orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted.
5. Add cooked orzo to the skillet, stirring to combine with creamy sauce.
6. Slice cooked chicken and add to the pasta mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Cajun Chicken Orzo Skillet
A flavorful one-pot dish that combines spicy Cajun seasonings with succulent chicken, tender orzo, and crunchy bell peppers. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add onion and bell peppers to the skillet; cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in Cajun seasoning and garlic powder. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Add cooked orzo and chicken back into the skillet. Toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken Orzo Salad
Mediterranean Chicken Orzo Salad Recipe
A refreshing summer salad that combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with the comfort of chicken and pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pitted green olives
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, parsley, feta cheese, and olives.
3. Add the cooked chicken to the bowl and toss to combine with the Mediterranean mixture.
4. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked orzo pasta with the chicken mixture and toss until well combined.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Chicken Orzo Soup
This light and refreshing soup is perfect for warm weather, packed with the flavors of juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and tender chicken. Serve with a swirl of creamy Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed tomatoes (canned or fresh)
– 1 small onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook the chicken in a large pot until browned and cooked through.
2. Add the onion, garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions.
4. Add the mixed tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. If desired, stir in heavy cream. Serve hot, topped with parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken and Orzo Casserole
A rich and satisfying casserole that combines the flavors of garlic butter chicken with the creamy texture of orzo pasta. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as spinach and parsley)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through.
5. In a separate bowl, combine cooked orzo, mixed greens, Parmesan cheese, and chicken broth.
6. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange half of the orzo mixture. Top with chicken, then repeat layers.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chicken Orzo with Spinach and Feta
A hearty and flavorful one-pot dish that combines the comfort of chicken, orzo pasta, and spinach with the tanginess of feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the reserved pasta water, chicken broth, cooked orzo pasta, spinach leaves, and crumbled feta cheese to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pot Chicken and Orzo with Mushrooms
This hearty one-pot dish combines flavorful chicken, nutty orzo, and earthy mushrooms for a satisfying weeknight meal. With minimal prep and easy cleanup, it’s perfect for busy households.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add mushrooms, onion, garlic, thyme, and paprika. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add orzo and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until orzo is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
6. Return the chicken to the pot and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo Pasta
This Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish combines juicy chicken, tender orzo, and rich sun-dried tomatoes for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as parsley, basil, and cilantro)
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let rest.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Combine cooked orzo, chicken, and tomato mixture in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with mixed greens and Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herbed Chicken and Orzo Stuffed Peppers
Add a pop of color and flavor to your meal with these vibrant stuffed peppers. Tender chicken, orzo, and a blend of herbs are perfectly balanced in this easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1 cup orzo pasta, cooked and cooled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, orzo, olive oil, onion, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken-orzo mixture, filling to the top.
4. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
6. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese (if using) and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Chicken Orzo with Roasted Vegetables
This hearty pasta dish combines the comfort of chicken and orzo with the earthy sweetness of roasted vegetables, making for a satisfying and wholesome meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 8 ounces orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Remove chicken from skillet and add onion, garlic, carrots, and Brussels sprouts. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Add cooked orzo to the skillet with roasted vegetables. Stir in chicken broth and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with cooked chicken.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creamy Pesto Chicken and Orzo
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with a creamy twist, featuring tender chicken, nutty orzo, and a rich pesto sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side.
4. Stir in pesto sauce, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Serve chicken and sauce over cooked orzo pasta. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Orzo with Lemon and Dill
This vibrant dish combines the comfort of orzo with the brightness of lemon and the freshness of dill, all tied together with succulent chicken. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s quick to prepare and full of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped dill
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in lemon juice, chopped dill, and cooked orzo. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir until coated with the sauce.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken and Orzo
This rich and flavorful dish combines tender chicken with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, served over nutty orzo pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side.
4. Remove chicken from skillet and add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Brush balsamic glaze evenly over the chicken.
6. Return chicken to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve chicken over cooked orzo pasta, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Orzo with Artichokes and Olives
A Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines the flavors of tender chicken, al dente orzo pasta, artichoke hearts, and briny olives.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 can (14.5 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add chopped artichoke hearts, sliced olives, garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in cooked orzo pasta and stir to combine with the chicken mixture.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Chicken and Orzo Bake
A comforting casserole filled with juicy chicken, creamy cheese, and nutty orzo pasta, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups mixed shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions, then set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. In a separate bowl, combine chicken broth, parsley, and shredded cheese. Stir until smooth.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange cooked orzo, then top with the chicken mixture. Pour the cheese sauce over the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Orzo with Zucchini and Basil
This recipe combines the creamy goodness of orzo pasta with the freshness of zucchini, basil, and juicy chicken. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 medium zucchini, diced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the diced zucchini and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the zucchini mixture. Stir in chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the cooked orzo pasta with the chicken and zucchini mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Orzo with Caramelized Onions
This rich and satisfying dish combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the savory flavors of chicken and orzo pasta. Perfect for a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté onions until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 20-25 minutes.
4. Add garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
5. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, caramelized onions, and orzo pasta. Pour in chicken broth and toss to coat.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
8. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Chicken Orzo with Roasted Red Peppers
This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines tender chicken, nutty orzo, and sweet roasted red peppers for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss red peppers with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken in remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil until cooked through. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Combine cooked orzo, roasted red peppers, and chicken in the skillet. Stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Chicken Orzo with Asparagus and Lemon Butter
This delightful recipe combines the tender juiciness of chicken, the nutty flavor of orzo, the crisp sweetness of asparagus, and the zesty brightness of lemon butter. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 8 ounces orzo pasta
– 2 cups fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side. Transfer to a baking dish.
4. Add asparagus to the same skillet and cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
5. Dot top of chicken with butter and sprinkle with garlic. Top with cooked orzo and asparagus.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Discover the delicious world of orzo recipes with chicken and fresh herbs! This article features 20 mouth-watering dishes that combine the nutty flavor of orzo pasta with the juiciness of chicken, all enhanced by the bright flavors of fresh herbs. From creamy bakes to savory salads, these recipes offer a variety of options for any meal occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and comforting, this collection has something for everyone. Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these simple yet impressive orzo recipes!
