One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo

This one-pan chicken and pesto orzo is the perfect combination of convenience and flavor. The tender chicken, perfectly cooked orzo, and aromatic pesto come together in one skillet, creating a satisfying and comforting meal that requires minimal cleanup. The pesto infuses the dish with fresh, vibrant flavor, while the orzo absorbs all the delicious sauce and juices from the chicken, making every bite savory and satisfying. It’s quick to make and packed with flavor, perfect for a busy weeknight or a simple weekend dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s a one-pan wonder, which means less mess and more time to enjoy the meal. The pesto is so flavorful and adds a fresh, herby kick to the dish that pairs beautifully with the tender chicken. The orzo is the perfect vehicle for soaking up all the flavors, and the whole dish comes together in just under 30 minutes, making it ideal for a busy night. I also appreciate that it’s a complete meal with protein, carbs, and greens, making it filling without feeling heavy.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 cup orzo pasta

• 2 cups chicken broth

• ½ cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• ½ cup heavy cream

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

• Parmesan cheese, grated (for garnish)

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.

2. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.

3. In the same skillet, add the orzo and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the broth.

4. While the orzo cooks, slice the cooked chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces.

5. Once the orzo is ready, stir in the pesto sauce and heavy cream, mixing until everything is well coated and creamy.

6. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and stir to combine. Allow the tomatoes to heat through for 2-3 minutes.

7. Return the sliced chicken to the skillet and toss everything together until the chicken is warmed through.

8. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 2-3 people and takes about 25-30 minutes to prepare from start to finish.

Variations

If I’m looking to switch things up, I sometimes add spinach, arugula, or roasted vegetables for extra texture and flavor. I’ve also swapped the chicken for shrimp or even grilled chicken thighs, which add a bit more flavor and richness. For a lighter version, I’ve used whole-wheat orzo or even cauliflower rice as a base. If I want more protein, I’ll toss in some chickpeas or white beans for extra heartiness.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I usually warm it up in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up and restore the creamy texture. It’s also great as a cold salad if you have leftovers and prefer something refreshing!

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, I’ve prepped it a few hours ahead by cooking the chicken and storing the orzo and pesto sauce separately. Then, I just reheat everything when I’m ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

If I don’t have orzo on hand, I’ve used small pasta shapes like ditalini, penne, or farfalle. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.

Can I make this dish without pesto?

If I’m out of pesto or want a variation, I’ve substituted with other sauces like sun-dried tomato pesto or even a simple garlic and herb butter sauce for a different twist.

Can I make this dish with bone-in chicken?

I prefer boneless, skinless chicken for this recipe, but if you want to use bone-in chicken, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. I’d suggest searing the chicken first and finishing it in the oven to ensure it’s cooked through before adding it to the orzo.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add some heat, I’ve mixed in some red pepper flakes or fresh sliced chili peppers when cooking the chicken. This gives the dish a spicy kick that complements the pesto.

Conclusion

One-pan chicken and pesto orzo is the perfect meal for busy nights when I want something quick, easy, and full of flavor. The combination of tender chicken, creamy pesto sauce, and orzo is irresistible, and it comes together in no time. I love that it’s a one-pan dish, which makes cleanup a breeze, and it’s versatile enough to adapt to whatever ingredients I have on hand. Whether I’m cooking for myself or for guests, this dish always satisfies.

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