Go Back

One-Pot Chicken Zucchini Orzo

This One-Pot Chicken Zucchini Orzo is creamy, comforting, and loaded with juicy chicken, tender zucchini, Parmesan cheese, and perfectly cooked orzo. It's an easy one-pan dinner that's perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients
  

  • Main Ingredients
  • 2 large chicken breasts diced
  • 2 medium zucchini sliced into half-moons
  • 1½ cups uncooked orzo
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • Creamy Sauce
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional Add-Ins
  • 2 cups baby spinach
  • ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • Fresh basil or parsley
  • Crushed red pepper flakes

Method
 

  1. Season diced chicken with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  3. Cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add zucchini and cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender.
  5. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  6. Add the uncooked orzo and stir for 1 minute to lightly toast it.
  7. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
  8. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 10–12 minutes until the orzo is nearly tender.
  9. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
  10. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
  11. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the chicken is heated through and the sauce has thickened.
  12. Stir in spinach if using and cook until wilted.
  13. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm.

Notes

  • Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
  • Add a splash of chicken broth when reheating leftovers if the orzo has absorbed extra liquid.
  • Chicken thighs can be substituted for extra juicy flavor.
  • For a Boursin chicken orzo variation, replace the heavy cream and Parmesan with one 5.2-ounce package of Garlic & Fine Herbs Boursin cheese.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.