Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo Recipe
Introduction
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo is a comforting one-pot meal that combines tender chicken, flaky vegetables, and rich creaminess with delicate orzo pasta. It’s a simple, hearty dish perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium pot, cook the orzo according to package instructions until tender. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the cooked chicken and vegetables, stirring until heated through.
- Step 3: Stir in the cooked orzo and pour in the cream. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture is warmed and creamy.
- Step 4: Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat and serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
- Swap heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flavor.
- Include mushrooms or spinach to boost vegetable variety.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to maintain creaminess.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?
Yes, frozen mixed vegetables work well and make this dish even quicker to prepare. Just thaw or cook them slightly before adding.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely. Substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or a plant-based creamer for a similar creamy texture.
PrintCreamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo Recipe
A comforting and creamy chicken pot pie inspired dish with tender chicken, tender orzo pasta, mixed vegetables, and a rich cream sauce all combined into a hearty one-pot meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
Orzo
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
Vegetables
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and corn)
Cream
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Orzo: In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook Chicken: If not pre-cooked, poach or pan-cook chicken breasts until fully cooked, then shred into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine Ingredients: In the same pot with cooked orzo, stir in shredded chicken, frozen mixed vegetables, butter, and gently heat until vegetables are warmed through.
- Add Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh herbs like parsley.
Notes
- You can substitute frozen vegetables with fresh vegetables like peas, carrots, and corn if preferred.
- For a lighter dish, use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken works perfectly for a quick meal.
- Add a pinch of thyme or rosemary for extra flavor if desired.
- This recipe is best served immediately as the orzo can absorb too much liquid if left to sit.
Keywords: Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo, chicken orzo recipe, creamy chicken pasta, one pot meal, comfort food
