Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo is a yummy dish that’s super easy to make! It features tender chicken, zesty tomatoes, and cheesy orzo, all cooked in one pan for a hassle-free meal.
It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something tasty without a lot of cleanup. I love how the cheese gets all melty—who can resist that? Just mix, cook, and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness, but chicken breasts work too if you’re looking for something leaner. If you’re vegetarian, try using chickpeas or firm tofu as a hearty substitute.
Orzo Pasta: Orzo gives this dish a nice texture, but if you don’t have it, you can use any small pasta like ditalini or even rice if you prefer. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.
Cheese: Monterey Jack is my favorite for its melting quality, but feel free to use mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor. You could even use a plant-based cheese to make it vegan!
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds great color and nutrition. If you can’t find it, kale or swiss chard are solid alternatives. Just chop them finely before adding.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Sautéed Onions and Garlic?
Sautéing onions and garlic correctly is key to building flavor in this dish. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with medium-high heat and add oil to the pan.
- Once the oil is hot, toss in your chopped onions and a pinch of salt. This helps to draw out moisture and enhances sweetness.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn translucent before adding garlic, which should be cooked for just 1 minute to avoid bitterness.
The goal is to soften the onions and infuse their flavor into the dish while keeping the garlic fragrant!
Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chicken and Orzo:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved (mix of red and yellow for color)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth (or stock)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20-25 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 35-40 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken pieces generously on both sides with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and dried oregano. This will enhance the overall flavor of your dish!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sear it until it’s golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes fragrant and translucent. This step builds a lovely base for your dish!
4. Toast the Orzo:
Add the orzo to the pan and stir it around for about a minute until it’s lightly toasted. This little step adds a wonderful nutty flavor to the orzo!
5. Add Broth and Cream:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir everything to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. You’ll notice the delicious aromas filling your kitchen!
6. Add Tomatoes and Spinach:
Now, gently stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped spinach. These veggies not only give color but also add nutrition to your meal!
7. Cook the Dish:
Carefully nestle the seared chicken pieces back on top of the orzo mixture. Cover the pan with a lid, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let it cook for about 12-15 minutes. This allows the orzo to become tender and the chicken to finish cooking through.
8. Melt the Cheese:
Once the orzo is cooked, remove the lid and sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the chicken and orzo. Cover again for 2-3 minutes to let the cheese melt beautifully.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, garnish your delicious dish with freshly chopped parsley. Now, it’s time to enjoy your creamy, cheesy Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo!
This meal is perfect when you’re looking for a cozy and satisfying dinner without the fuss of multiple pots and pans. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead of Regular Orzo?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo is a great alternative and adds extra fiber to the dish. Just be aware that it may require a slightly longer cooking time, so check the package instructions for best results.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt for a creamy texture. For a dairy-free version, try coconut milk or a cashew cream for richness.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to enhance the flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to sauté them with the onions and garlic to soften them before adding the orzo and liquids.