Chicken Pot Pie Orzo is a comforting twist on the classic dish, combining all your favorite flavors in a creamy, hearty pasta that’s perfect for any day of the week. It’s great for using up leftovers, and it’s sure to warm you up from the inside out.
Why make this recipe
This recipe is not only easy to make, but it also embraces the cozy essence of traditional chicken pot pie. The orzo pasta adds a delightful texture, and the medley of vegetables and creamy broth creates a filling meal that the whole family will love. Plus, it’s a one-pot dish, making cleanup a breeze!
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How to make it
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until soft.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in the orzo and cook for 2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Lower the heat and simmer until the orzo is cooked, about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded chicken, frozen peas, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for another 5 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
How to serve it
Scoop the Chicken Pot Pie Orzo into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. It can be enjoyed solo or paired with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a full meal.
How to store it
Leftover Chicken Pot Pie Orzo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of broth or cream to maintain the creaminess.
Helpful tips
- Make sure to cook the orzo al dente, as it will continue to absorb liquid while sitting.
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. A little more thyme or fresh herbs can elevate the flavors.
- For a bit of added richness, consider topping each bowl with a sprinkle of shredded cheese before serving.
Optional variations
- Substitute the orzo with any pasta shape you prefer, although cooking time may vary.
- Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked?
Yes, you can use raw chicken; just add it earlier in the cooking process and make sure it’s fully cooked before adding the cream.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with whole milk or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk, but the end result may be less creamy.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes! You can freeze the Chicken Pot Pie Orzo in portions. Just ensure it cools completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.
Chicken Pot Pie Orzo
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until soft.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in the orzo and cook for 2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Lower the heat and simmer until the orzo is cooked, about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded chicken, frozen peas, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for another 5 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
