Best Orzo Dinner Recipe

I discovered the best orzo dinner recipe during a hectic week when I had little time and even less energy to cook however I still wanted something hearty and comforting so I checked what I had on hand then I tossed together some pantry staples and a few fresh vegetables and to my surprise the result was magic and the whole family loved it

Since then this orzo dinner has been my go-to comfort meal because it’s so quick to prepare and it doesn’t sacrifice flavor plus it feels like a cozy bowl of warmth especially on chilly evenings and it’s perfect for those times when I want a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Orzo – A rice-shaped pasta that gives this dish a creamy texture and absorbs flavors beautifully
• Cooked chicken – Adds protein and turns this dish into a complete one-bowl dinner
• Cherry tomatoes – Bursts of sweetness that balance the savory notes
• Fresh spinach – Brings color and a dose of healthy greens
• Onion – Creates the aromatic base for flavor
• Garlic – Adds depth and savory warmth
• Chicken broth – The flavorful liquid that brings everything together
• Olive oil – Helps sauté the vegetables and adds richness
• Parmesan cheese – A final touch of nutty saltiness that enhances the overall flavor
• Salt and pepper – Essential seasonings to balance and lift the dish

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or sauté pan – To cook everything evenly in one pot
• Cutting board – For chopping the vegetables and prepping ingredients
• Sharp knife – Essential for slicing the onion and garlic cleanly
• Wooden spoon – Great for stirring without damaging your non-stick pans
• Measuring cups – To get your broth and orzo quantities just right
• Cheese grater – For freshly grating that irresistible Parmesan on top

Instructions

Step 1:

I start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat

Step 2:

Next I sauté the chopped onion for about 3 to 4 minutes until it’s soft and translucent then I stir in the minced garlic and cook it for another 30 seconds until fragrant

Step 3:

Now I toss in the cherry tomatoes and let them cook for a couple of minutes just until they begin to blister and release their juices

Step 4:

Then I add the orzo straight into the pan and stir it well so it toasts lightly and soaks up the aromatic base

Step 5:

After that I pour in the chicken broth slowly while stirring and I bring it all to a gentle simmer then I cook it uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes until the orzo is tender and the broth thickens into a creamy sauce

Step 6:

I fold in the cooked chicken and fresh spinach stirring gently until the spinach wilts and the chicken warms through

Step 7:

To finish I season with salt and pepper to taste and top it off with a generous handful of grated Parmesan

Tips

If you want a vegetarian version I swap the chicken for canned chickpeas or white beans

I’ve also tried this with kale instead of spinach and it turns out just as delicious

To make it creamier I sometimes stir in a splash of cream or a spoonful of mascarpone at the end

Leftovers reheat well and I usually add a splash of broth or water before warming it up

Ways to Serve

I love serving this with crusty garlic bread on the side to soak up the sauce

A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the orzo

For a festive touch during the holidays I serve it in shallow bowls topped with extra cheese and herbs

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the best orzo dinner recipe ahead of time?

Yes you can prepare it in advance and reheat it later just add a bit of broth to loosen the texture

Can I freeze the best orzo dinner recipe?

Absolutely it freezes well for up to a month and I recommend storing it in single portions

What other veggies can I add to the best orzo dinner recipe?

You can mix in zucchini mushrooms bell peppers or even frozen peas depending on what you have on hand

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this best orzo dinner recipe a try! It’s one of my weeknight life-savers and I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Don’t forget to save this recipe for later or share it with someone who needs a quick dinner idea.

Happy Cooking!

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