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Toasted Orzo with Chicken is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings together the heartiness of chicken, the nuttiness of toasted orzo, and the vibrant taste of sautéed vegetables. Originating from Mediterranean cuisine, this meal offers a perfect balance of protein, carbs, and fresh flavors, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or meal prep option. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—it uses pantry staples and fresh ingredients to create a one-pan dish that feels both indulgent and nourishing.
This dish holds a timeless appeal due to its versatility. It can be adjusted to suit dietary preferences, made ahead for busy days, and even customized with your favorite vegetables or herbs. The process of toasting the orzo adds a unique depth of flavor, while the simmering of the pasta in stock ensures it absorbs all the rich tastes from the broth, herbs, and tomato puree. This recipe embodies the essence of comfort food with a modern twist.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this step-by-step guide will help you create a meal that is both satisfying and visually stunning. Let’s dive in!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For Toasting the Orzo:
2 tbsp (30g) olive oil
1 pound (500g) orzo pasta
For the Chicken:
1 1/4 pound (600g) chicken breast, cut into strips
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dry oregano
For the Vegetables and Sauce:
1 medium onion (about 6 oz – 180g), chopped
5 garlic cloves, minced
1 red bell pepper (about 4 oz – 120g), sliced
1 cup (240g) tomato puree
1 tsp dry oregano
1 tsp dry basil
5 1/2 cups (1.3 liters) vegetable or chicken stock
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings
This recipe serves 6 people generously.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 780mg
How to Make Toasted Orzo with Chicken
Step 1: Toast the Orzo
Heat a large pan over medium-high heat.
Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the orzo pasta.
Stir the orzo constantly to ensure even toasting. This step takes about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know the orzo is ready when it turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma.
Transfer the toasted orzo to a bowl and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Season the chicken strips with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dry oregano.
In the same pan, heat a little olive oil if necessary and cook the chicken over medium-high heat.
Cook for 4-6 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 4-6 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, add the chopped onion and a bit more olive oil if needed.
Cook the onion for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
Add the minced garlic and sliced red pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Stir in the tomato puree, mixing well with the vegetables.
Add the dry oregano and basil for a burst of Mediterranean flavor.
Let the mixture cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavors.
Step 5: Simmer the Orzo
Add the toasted orzo to the pan, mixing it into the vegetable-tomato mixture.
Pour in the vegetable or chicken stock, ensuring the orzo is fully submerged.
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 6: Add the Chicken
Return the cooked chicken strips to the pan, nestling them into the orzo mixture.
Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to warm through and absorb the flavors.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve hot, and enjoy this hearty, flavorful meal with your loved ones.
Why Toasted Orzo with Chicken is Timeless
This dish is timeless because it combines classic flavors with modern convenience. The toasted orzo adds a unique nutty flavor that elevates the dish beyond a typical pasta recipe. By cooking the orzo in stock, the pasta becomes infused with rich, savory flavors, creating a creamy, risotto-like texture without the need for heavy cream.
The use of chicken provides lean protein, while the vegetables and tomato puree add color, nutrients, and a fresh taste. The result is a balanced meal that feels both indulgent and nourishing.
Additionally, the versatility of this recipe makes it a household favorite. You can swap out the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas, or incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach. It’s a dish that can evolve with your preferences and ingredients on hand.
Tips for Making the Perfect Toasted Orzo with Chicken
Toast the Orzo Properly: Keep a close eye on the orzo while toasting, as it can burn quickly. Stir constantly for even browning.
Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Seasoning each layer—chicken, vegetables, and sauce—ensures the dish is packed with flavor.
Adjust the Liquid: If the orzo absorbs the stock too quickly, add a little more hot stock or water to achieve the desired consistency.
Use Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs work well, adding fresh parsley or basil at the end enhances the flavor and presentation.
Try Variations: Experiment with adding olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or a sprinkle of feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
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