Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo
Are you ready for a comforting dish that’s as cozy as your favorite sweater? Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo brings together the sweet nostalgia of chicken pot pie and the hearty comfort of orzo pasta, creating a meal that’s sure to fill your heart and belly alike. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or a quiet night in, bringing warmth and flavor to the table in just one pot.
Why Make This Recipe
- One-Pot Wonder: Simplifies cooking and cleaning with a single skillet.
- Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and flavorful chicken make it a hit with the little ones.
- It’s a warm hug in a bowl, ideal for busy weeknights or leisurely Sundays; this dish truly embodies comfort food at its best.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, and sauté until soft.
- Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- Add the cooked chicken, broth, and thyme to the skillet, and bring to a boil.
- Stir in the orzo and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook according to package instructions until the orzo is tender.
- Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Storage Tips for Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo
- Refrigeration: Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze it for 2-3 months; ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container.
- Reheating: When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring back the creaminess.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo
- Pair it with a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the creaminess.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up all those delicious flavors.
- Top with additional fresh parsley or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a gourmet touch.
Tips to Make Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo
- Key Tip: To boost flavor, consider sautéing some additional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms along with the onion and garlic.
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken for even easier prep!
- Adjust the creaminess by modifying the amount of heavy cream based on personal preference.
Variations
- Healthier Option: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk for a lighter, dairy-free version.
- Vegetarian Twist: Replace the chicken with chickpeas and add extra veggies to make it vegetarian-friendly.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
A: Yes, frozen mixed vegetables work just fine and will save you prep time!
Q: What if I don’t have orzo?
A: You can replace orzo with any small pasta shape such as ditalini, or even rice, keeping in mind that the cooking times will vary.
Q: How do I keep the orzo from getting mushy?
A: Be sure to cook the orzo according to the package directions and don’t overcook it once added to the skillet; it should be al dente before finishing the dish.
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo is not just a meal; it’s an experience—a piece of warmth enjoyed by the whole family. Whether you’re enjoying it to wind down after a long day or serving it at a gathering, this delightful dish promises satisfaction with every bite. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves and bring this charming recipe to your kitchen—it’s a dish that will linger in your heart and memory for many meals to come!
Print
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Comfort Food
Description
A comforting dish that combines the sweet nostalgia of chicken pot pie with the hearty comfort of orzo pasta, perfect for family gatherings or a quiet night in.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, and sauté until soft.
- Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- Add the cooked chicken, broth, and thyme to the skillet, and bring to a boil.
- Stir in the orzo and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook according to package instructions until the orzo is tender.
- Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
For a healthier option, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk. Use leftover rotisserie chicken for easier prep.