When it comes to one-pot meals that are packed with flavor, easy to make, and versatile enough for a weeknight dinner or a dinner party, Toasted Orzo with Chicken stands out as a timeless classic. This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the nuttiness of toasted orzo pasta, tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and a rich tomato-based sauce, all simmered together to create a comforting and satisfying meal.

The origins of this dish can be traced to Mediterranean cuisine, where orzo—a rice-shaped pasta—is often used in soups, salads, and casseroles. Toasting the orzo adds an extra layer of flavor, giving it a nutty aroma that sets the stage for the savory, tangy sauce and juicy chicken. The simplicity of the ingredients belies the depth of flavor this dish delivers.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser. It’s hearty, wholesome, and brimming with vibrant flavors. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze. Let’s explore the ingredients, steps, and tips to create this culinary gem.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For Toasting the Orzo:

• Olive oil: 2 tbsp (30 g)
• Orzo pasta: 1 pound (500 g)

For Cooking the Chicken:

• Chicken breast: 1 ¼ pound (600 g), cut into strips
• Salt: To taste
• Freshly ground black pepper: To taste
• Garlic powder: ½ tsp
• Oregano: 1 tsp

For the Vegetables and Sauce:

• Olive oil: Additional if needed
• Onion: 1 medium (6 oz/180 g), chopped
• Garlic: 5 cloves, minced
• Red pepper: 1 (4 oz/120 g), sliced
• Tomato puree: 1 cup (240 g)
• Dried oregano: 1 tsp
• Dried basil: 1 tsp
• Vegetable or chicken stock: 5 ½ cups (1.3 liters)
• Salt: To taste
• Freshly ground black pepper: To taste

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley: Chopped

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Instructions

Step 1: Toasting the Orzo

1. Heat a large, heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and swirl to coat the pan.
3. Pour in the orzo pasta and stir constantly to ensure even toasting.
4. Toast for 5-7 minutes, or until the orzo turns a rich golden brown and releases a nutty aroma.
5. Transfer the toasted orzo to a bowl and set aside.

Step 2: Cooking the Chicken

1. Season the chicken strips with salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, and oregano.
2. In the same pan, heat a bit more olive oil if necessary.
3. Add the chicken strips and cook for 4-6 minutes on one side, until golden brown.
4. Flip the chicken strips and cook for an additional 4-6 minutes, or until fully cooked and golden.
5. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Preparing the Vegetables

1. In the same pan, add the chopped onion. If the pan seems dry, add a small amount of olive oil.
2. Cook the onion over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Stir in the sliced red pepper and cook for another minute to soften slightly.

Step 4: Making the Sauce

1. Add the tomato puree to the pan and stir to combine with the vegetables.
2. Cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavors of the tomato base.
3. Sprinkle in the dried oregano and dried basil, stirring well to incorporate.

Step 5: Incorporating the Orzo and Simmering

1. Add the toasted orzo back to the pan, stirring to coat it with the tomato mixture.
2. Pour in the vegetable or chicken stock and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 6: Adding the Chicken

1. Return the cooked chicken strips to the pan, nestling them into the orzo mixture.
2. Cook for 2-3 minutes more, allowing the chicken to reheat and absorb the flavors of the sauce.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the pan from the heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
2. Serve warm, directly from the pan, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this hearty dish.

Servings and Nutritional Information

• Servings: 6
• Calories (per serving): 470 kcal
• Protein: 28 g
• Carbohydrates: 47 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 580 mg

Why This Recipe is Timeless

Toasted Orzo with Chicken is a timeless dish for several reasons. First, it captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine, known for its simple yet bold flavors. The combination of toasted orzo, juicy chicken, and rich tomato sauce is deeply satisfying and universally appealing.

The dish is also highly versatile. It can be customized with different vegetables, spices, or proteins to suit individual preferences. The use of orzo instead of rice or regular pasta gives the dish a unique texture and flavor, elevating it from a standard one-pot meal to something special.

Additionally, this recipe is economical, using pantry staples and readily available ingredients. It’s a comforting dish that can be enjoyed year-round, whether as a cozy winter dinner or a light summer meal.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, small pasta shapes like ditalini or pearl couscous can work as substitutes, though the flavor of toasted orzo is unique.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. You can add more vegetables or chickpeas for added protein.

3. How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?
Stir frequently while toasting and simmering. The olive oil helps coat the orzo, preventing clumps.

Tips for Perfect Toasted Orzo with Chicken

1. Don’t skip toasting the orzo: This step enhances the flavor and adds a nutty depth to the dish.
2. Use fresh herbs for garnish: While dried herbs are great for cooking, fresh parsley or basil adds a bright, fresh finish.
3. Adjust seasoning at the end: Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving to balance the flavors.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of stock or water to loosen the consistency.
3. Freezing: While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, it can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

Toasted Orzo with Chicken is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of Mediterranean flavors and culinary traditions. The nutty toasted orzo, tender chicken, and vibrant tomato-based sauce come together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that’s comforting yet elegant.

This recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple, wholesome ingredients. It’s a dish that can be adapted to suit your tastes, making it a versatile addition to your repertoire. Whether you’re feeding your family, hosting friends, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress.

Take the time to savor this timeless dish, and let it remind you of the joys of cooking and sharing food with loved ones. It’s not just a meal—it’s an experience. Enjoy!