Garlic Herb Chicken Orzo One-Pan

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, flavorful dinner that comes together effortlessly, this Garlic Herb Chicken Orzo One-Pan is your new go-to. Tender chicken breast, aromatic herbs, juicy cherry tomatoes, and vibrant spinach all simmered with orzo pasta in one pan—this dish is a weeknight winner. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients and bursts with fresh, garlicky goodness that feels both homey and a little bit special. Plus, the one-pan method means minimal cleanup and maximum taste, making it perfect for busy evenings when you want a hearty meal without the hassle.

Why I Love This Recipe

What truly makes this Garlic Herb Chicken Orzo One-Pan recipe stand out is its simplicity paired with incredible flavor. It’s the kind of meal that feels like it took hours but actually comes together in under 30 minutes. The use of dried oregano, thyme, and basil adds a lovely depth and warmth that complements the garlic beautifully. I also adore how the orzo cooks right in the chicken broth, soaking up all those herby, garlicky juices. Adding fresh spinach at the end keeps it bright and nutritious, while the cherry tomatoes give a sweet pop of freshness. It’s a complete, balanced dish without needing many ingredients or extra steps, making it ideal for anyone who loves fuss-free cooking with fresh flavors.

Ingredient List

• 1 pound chicken breast, diced – bite-sized pieces cook quickly and evenly.
• 2 cups orzo pasta – the perfect small pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors.
• 4 cups chicken broth – provides rich flavor and the cooking liquid for the orzo.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing the chicken and garlic.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – the star of the dish, lending fragrant aroma.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano – adds warmth and earthiness.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – subtle herbaceous notes that complement poultry.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil – bright, slightly sweet herb flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste – essential for seasoning.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – juicy bursts of sweetness and color.
• 1 cup spinach leaves – fresh greens that add nutrition and vibrant color.
• Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional) – adds a savory finish, skip or substitute if desired.

What’s in the Gear List

• Large deep skillet or sauté pan – for cooking everything in one vessel.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – to stir without scratching your pan.
• Chef’s knife and cutting board – to prep chicken, garlic, and veggies.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient amounts.
• Colander (optional) – only if you want to rinse the spinach or tomatoes.

Mastering Garlic Herb Chicken Orzo One-Pan: How-To

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in your skillet. Once shimmering, add the diced chicken breast. Season with salt, pepper, half the dried oregano, thyme, and basil. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same pan, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. This is where the dish starts to build its garlic-herb magic.

Step 3: Toast the Orzo

Add the orzo pasta to the pan and stir it around with the garlic for about 1-2 minutes. Toasting the orzo slightly before adding the broth helps develop a nutty flavor and prevents the pasta from getting mushy.

Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the remaining dried herbs. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed—about 10-12 minutes.

Step 5: Return Chicken and Add Veggies

Once the orzo is nearly done, stir the cooked chicken back into the pan along with the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften slightly.

Step 6: Finish with Spinach and Cheese

Turn off the heat, then gently fold in the fresh spinach leaves. The residual heat will wilt them perfectly. If you like, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over each serving for a rich, savory finish.

Ingredient Flex Options

• Swap chicken breast for boneless chicken thighs for a juicier, richer flavor.
• Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make it vegetarian-friendly; add mushrooms or tofu instead of chicken.
• Try fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley if you have them on hand instead of dried herbs.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of red pepper flakes for a bright or spicy twist.
• Substitute baby kale or arugula for spinach for different textures and flavors.

What Not to Do

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when sautéing chicken; cook in batches if needed to ensure even browning.
• Avoid adding all the spinach at the start—it will overcook and lose its vibrant color and texture.
• Don’t skip toasting the orzo; it really elevates the flavor and texture.
• Resist the urge to stir the orzo constantly; gentle occasional stirring prevents it from becoming gummy.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This Garlic Herb Chicken Orzo One-Pan is fantastic for meal prep. After cooking, allow it to cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the orzo if it seems dry. For longer storage, freeze in meal-sized portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to thaw the chicken fully before dicing and cooking. Cooking frozen chicken can result in uneven cooking and a less tender texture.

What if I don’t have orzo pasta on hand?

You can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or even small elbow macaroni. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is it okay to use fresh herbs instead of dried in this recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh herbs can add a brighter flavor. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried since they’re less concentrated.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu, use vegetable broth, and omit the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative for a vegan-friendly version.

Don’t Miss These

• For a creamy veggie-packed pasta dish, check out this One Pot Creamy Zucchini Orzo Risotto.
• If you love easy sheet pan dinners, try the flavorful Sheet Pan Pesto Chicken Zucchini Rounds for a quick weeknight meal.

The Takeaway

This Garlic Herb Chicken Orzo One-Pan strikes the perfect balance of quick, easy, and delicious. Its simple ingredient list comes together to create a meal that’s bursting with fresh herb flavors, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked orzo. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this one-pan wonder delivers comfort and nourishment without the fuss. Plus, the flexibility with ingredients and make-ahead options means you can customize it to your liking and schedule. Keep this recipe in your weeknight rotation—you’ll be so glad you did!

With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this dish proves that sometimes, the best meals really do come from a single pan. Enjoy every garlicky, herby, cozy bite!

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