Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo to wrap you in comfort on a chilly day. This delightful dish combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and small pasta in a rich and creamy sauce, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will have your family asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the diced chicken breast to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink in the center, which should take about 5-6 minutes.
- Sprinkle in the dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper, mixing well to coat the chicken with the aromatic herbs.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a hearty boil, letting all those wonderful flavors meld together.
- Once boiling, add the orzo pasta and frozen mixed vegetables. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente and the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the heavy cream, allowing the dish to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes. You’ll notice the sauce thickening and becoming luxuriously creamy!
- Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired, then remove from heat.
- Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to customize the dish with your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand.
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or some freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- This recipe is perfect for meal prep; just store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe employs basic sautéing to develop flavors and simmering to cook the orzo and meld the ingredients together. Emphasizing the freshness of your herbs and using a good-quality chicken broth will enhance the overall taste significantly.
FAQ
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If you have fresh vegetables like carrots, peas, bell peppers, or even broccoli, feel free to chop them up and use them in place of frozen.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the dish might be less creamy. Alternatively, coconut cream works well for a dairy-free version.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems thick.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo is a delightful and cozy dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any night of the week. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and the satisfying bite of orzo will surely become a family favorite. So grab a bowl, serve it up, and enjoy a taste of comfort made right in your own kitchen!