Ingredients

For Toasting the Orzo:

• 2 tbsp (30g) olive oil
• 1 pound (500g) orzo pasta

For the Chicken:

• 1 1/4 pound (600g) chicken breast, cut into strips
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dry oregano

For the Vegetables and Sauce:

• 1 medium onion (about 6 oz – 180g), chopped
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper (about 4 oz – 120g), sliced
• 1 cup (240g) tomato puree
• 1 tsp dry oregano
• 1 tsp dry basil
• 5 1/2 cups (1.3 liters) vegetable or chicken stock
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Servings

This recipe serves 6 people generously.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 780mg

How to Make Toasted Orzo with Chicken

Step 1: Toast the Orzo

1. Heat a large pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the orzo pasta.
3. Stir the orzo constantly to ensure even toasting. This step takes about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know the orzo is ready when it turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma.
4. Transfer the toasted orzo to a bowl and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Season the chicken strips with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dry oregano.
2. In the same pan, heat a little olive oil if necessary and cook the chicken over medium-high heat.
3. Cook for 4-6 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 4-6 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
4. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same pan, add the chopped onion and a bit more olive oil if needed.
2. Cook the onion for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and sliced red pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

1. Stir in the tomato puree, mixing well with the vegetables.
2. Add the dry oregano and basil for a burst of Mediterranean flavor.
3. Let the mixture cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavors.

Step 5: Simmer the Orzo

1. Add the toasted orzo to the pan, mixing it into the vegetable-tomato mixture.
2. Pour in the vegetable or chicken stock, ensuring the orzo is fully submerged.
3. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
4. 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 is absorbed.

Step 6: Add the Chicken

1. Return the cooked chicken strips to the pan, nestling them into the orzo mixture.
2. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to warm through and absorb the flavors.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish for a pop of color and freshness.
2. Serve hot, and enjoy this hearty, flavorful meal with your loved ones.

Why Toasted Orzo with Chicken is Timeless

This dish is timeless because it combines classic flavors with modern convenience. The toasted orzo adds a unique nutty flavor that elevates the dish beyond a typical pasta recipe. By cooking the orzo in stock, the pasta becomes infused with rich, savory flavors, creating a creamy, risotto-like texture without the need for heavy cream.

The use of chicken provides lean protein, while the vegetables and tomato puree add color, nutrients, and a fresh taste. The result is a balanced meal that feels both indulgent and nourishing.

Additionally, the versatility of this recipe makes it a household favorite. You can swap out the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas, or incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach. It’s a dish that can evolve with your preferences and ingredients on hand.

Tips for Making the Perfect Toasted Orzo with Chicken

1. Toast the Orzo Properly: Keep a close eye on the orzo while toasting, as it can burn quickly. Stir constantly for even browning.
2. Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Seasoning each layer—chicken, vegetables, and sauce—ensures the dish is packed with flavor.
3. Adjust the Liquid: If the orzo absorbs the stock too quickly, add a little more hot stock or water to achieve the desired consistency.
4. Use Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs work well, adding fresh parsley or basil at the end enhances the flavor and presentation.
5. Try Variations: Experiment with adding olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or a sprinkle of feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, small pasta shapes like risoni or fregola can be used as substitutes for orzo.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish reheats well. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, but note that the orzo may absorb more liquid during freezing and thawing, so you might need to add some stock or water when reheating.

4. What can I serve with this dish?
A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables pairs beautifully with Toasted Orzo with Chicken.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of stock if needed.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

Toasted Orzo with Chicken is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. From the nutty, golden orzo to the succulent chicken and flavorful vegetables, every bite is a reminder of how delicious home-cooked food can be.

This dish’s versatility, ease of preparation, and comforting flavors make it a timeless recipe that you’ll find yourself returning to again and again. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, Toasted Orzo with Chicken promises to impress.

So, grab your ingredients, fire up your stove, and savor the satisfaction of creating a meal that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat. Bon appétit!