One-Pot Pesto Chicken Orzo
Savor the essence of comfort food with One-Pot Pesto Chicken Orzo, a dish where tender chicken meets fragrant basil pesto amidst perfectly cooked orzo. Bursting with vibrant flavors and delightful textures, this meal is sure to warm hearts and fill bellies. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, it transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable dining experience that impresses every time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: 煮
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by gathering all items needed.
- In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Once heated, add diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown on all sides.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in orzo pasta and chicken broth; bring to a gentle simmer. Cook until the orzo is tender yet al dente.
- Incorporate the basil pesto and halved cherry tomatoes, mixing well until evenly coated.
- Remove from heat and stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Top with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Customize by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Swap basil pesto for sun-dried tomato pesto for a unique twist. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove.