BEST CHICKEN POT PIE ORZO

Imagine the comforting, savory aroma of classic chicken pot pie, but amplified with the satisfying bite of perfectly cooked orzo, melding into a creamy, flavorful sauce studded with tender chicken and vegetables. This Chicken Pot Pie Orzo brings all the cozy vibes of fall into one unforgettable bowl, and I promise, you’ll be coming back for seconds (and thirds!).

The Magic Behind This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo

We all crave those comforting, classic dishes, but sometimes time just isn’t on our side. That’s where this recipe shines! I wanted to capture the heart of a traditional chicken pot pie – that creamy, savory chicken goodness – but in a quicker, easier format. Orzo pasta is the perfect vehicle; it cooks up fast and absorbs all those delicious flavors like a dream. Plus, let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a one-pot meal? Less cleanup is always a win in my book! This recipe is also infinitely customizable, so feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or add a pinch of your favorite herbs. Think of it as a blank canvas for your pot pie dreams! And if you are in the mood for the original, try this Chicken And Dumplings Recipe.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this amazing Chicken Pot Pie Orzo. I’ve included notes on substitutions and suggestions to make it even better!

For the Chicken

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces. You can also use cooked chicken, like rotisserie chicken, to save time!
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Or any cooking oil you prefer.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: To taste.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is always best!

For the Orzo Base

• 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and flavor.
• 1 medium onion: Diced. Yellow or white onion works great.
• 2 carrots: Diced.
• 2 celery stalks: Diced. This trio is the classic aromatic base for so many comforting dishes.
• 2 cloves garlic: Minced. Because everything is better with garlic!
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds that classic pot pie flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary: Optional, but adds a lovely depth of flavor.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: To thicken the sauce. You can use gluten-free flour as well.
• 4 cups chicken broth: Low-sodium is best so you can control the salt level.
• 1 cup milk: I recommend whole milk for the creamiest results, but you can use 2% or even non-dairy milk.
• 1 cup frozen peas: Adds a pop of sweetness and color.
• 1 cup frozen corn: Same as the peas!
• 1 pound orzo pasta: This small, rice-shaped pasta cooks up quickly and perfectly.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: For garnish and freshness.

Let’s Talk Savory Chicken: Prep Like a Pro

Before we dive into the step-by-step instructions, let’s talk about the savory chicken. You can use leftover cooked chicken, or you can quickly cook it up yourself. If you are using raw chicken, cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This ensures that it cooks evenly and quickly. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. Remember, if you are short on time, rotisserie chicken is your best friend. Shred it and add it to the dish at the end.

Step-by-Step Instructions: From Pot to Plate

Okay, gather your ingredients and let’s get cooking! Don’t be intimidated – this recipe is super straightforward. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a comforting bowl of Chicken Pot Pie Orzo in no time. If you prefer a classic, try this Chicken And Dumplings Recipe.

Getting Started

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried rosemary (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Building the Creamy Base

2. Make a Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes. This helps to thicken the sauce and prevent lumps.
3. Add the Liquids: Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to ensure there are no lumps. Then, stir in the milk. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

The Orzo Magic

3. Cook the Orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the pot and stir well. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked through and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Finishing Touches

4. Add the Goodies: Stir in the cooked chicken, frozen peas, and frozen corn. Heat through for a few minutes until everything is warmed.
5. Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Troubleshooting: Common Questions Answered

Even the easiest recipes can sometimes throw us a curveball. Here are a few common questions I get asked, along with my best solutions:

• My sauce is too thick! No problem! Just add a little more chicken broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
• My sauce is too thin! You can thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Add the slurry to the pot and simmer until the sauce thickens.
• Can I use different vegetables? Absolutely! Mushrooms, potatoes, green beans, or spinach would all be delicious additions. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can! The flavors will meld together even more. Just keep in mind that the orzo will continue to absorb liquid, so you might need to add a splash of broth or milk when reheating.

Variations: Spice It Up or Simplify It!

This Chicken Pot Pie Orzo is fantastic as is, but don’t be afraid to get creative! Here are a few variations to try:

• Spicy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a little kick.
• Cheesy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo: Stir in a cup of shredded cheddar cheese or Gruyere cheese at the end for extra creaminess and flavor.
• Vegetarian Chicken Pot Pie Orzo: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, broccoli, and cauliflower.
• Pot Pie Soup: Add extra chicken broth for a more soup-like consistency.

Consider these other great recipes if you are craving the flavors of chicken pot pie: Chicken Pot Pie Pasta, Chicken Pot Pie Casserole, or even a Crock Pot Pot Pie. For those that like the crispy top, a Chicken Pot Pie With Biscuits is a good choice.

Serving Suggestions: Complete the Meal

This Chicken Pot Pie Orzo is a complete meal in itself, but you can always add a few sides to round it out. A simple green salad or some crusty bread for dipping in the sauce would be perfect. For a truly comforting meal, serve it with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.

The Perfect Quick Fall Dinner

As the leaves start to turn and the weather gets cooler, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of Chicken Pot Pie Orzo. It’s the perfect quick fall dinner for busy weeknights. It combines all the flavors of a classic chicken pot pie with the ease of a one-pot meal. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or vegetables. So, next time you’re craving a little comfort food, give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed! This is the best of all Orzo Recipes.

Storage and Reheating: Making It Last

Leftovers are your friend! Store any leftover Chicken Pot Pie Orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or heat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed to loosen it up.

Why I Know You’ll Love It

I truly believe this Chicken Pot Pie Orzo will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s easy to make, customizable to your tastes, and incredibly satisfying. It’s the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight meal. Give it a try, and let me know what you think! I can’t wait to hear how you make it your own. This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo is a winner, I promise.