This Monterey Chicken One-Pan Orzo is a fun and easy meal that brings together juicy chicken, colorful veggies, and creamy cheese, all cooked in one pot. Less mess is a win!
I love that everything comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, who can resist the gooey cheese on top? It’s comfort food that’s quick and tasty! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken thighs can also work well! For a vegetarian option, use hearty vegetables like mushrooms or eggplant instead.
Orzo Pasta: Orzo has a lovely texture that works nicely in this recipe. If you don’t have orzo, any small pasta type like ditalini or even rice can be a good substitute; just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Monterey Jack Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, adding creaminess to the dish. If you can’t find it, try using mozzarella, gouda, or a blend of your favorite melting cheeses.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a nice pop of color and nutrition. You can use kale or Swiss chard instead. If you’re using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain it well.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken perfectly is key for this dish! Here’s a simple way to make sure it’s juicy and safe:
- First, season the chicken well, allowing time for flavors to soak in.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cooking in batches if needed helps achieve a good sear.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
By following these steps, you’ll have tender, delicious chicken every time! Enjoy your cooking! 😊
Monterey Chicken One-Pan Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prep and approximately 25-30 minutes to cook, making it perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner. You’ll love that it’s all made in one pan, cutting down on cleaning time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this flavorful mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, ensuring they’re well-coated.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned and nearly cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside for later.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same pan, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it turns soft. Next, add the minced garlic and let it cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. This step adds aromatic flavor to your dish!
4. Toast the Orzo:
Add the orzo pasta to the pan and stir it around for about 1-2 minutes. This helps to lightly toast the orzo and brings out its nutty flavor. It’s a simple but important step!
5. Combine with Broth and Tomatoes:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes. Stir everything together, and bring the mixture to a boil. The broth will create a savory base for the orzo to cook in.
6. Simmer Everything Together:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and nestle the chicken breasts back into the pan on top of the orzo. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and chicken is cooked all the way through.
7. Add the Spinach:
Remove the cover and gently stir in the chopped spinach. Allow it to wilt into the mixture. It will add vibrant color and a dose of nutrition!
8. Melt the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the chicken and orzo. Cover the pan again for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt, creating a creamy, delicious topping.
9. Finish and Serve:
If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a nice garnish. Serve your warm Monterey Chicken One-Pan Orzo straight from the pan for a cozy and satisfying meal!
Enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and colorful one-pan dish with minimal cleanup!
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Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While orzo is ideal, you can substitute with any small pasta like ditalini, or even quinoa or rice. Just be sure to adjust cooking times according to the pasta you choose.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Chicken Breasts?
No problem! You can use boneless chicken thighs, which are juicier and add lots of flavor. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers, peas, or broccoli when you stir in the spinach. Just make sure they’re cut into small pieces to cook evenly!