Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo
This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo is a comforting twist on a classic dish, replacing the traditional pie crust with tender orzo pasta. It's a simple and satisfying weeknight meal that's packed with flavor and easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Colander or strainer (optional, for draining excess liquid)
- Mixing bowl (optional, for preparing ingredients)
Ingredients
- 1 pound orzo pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups mixed vegetables, frozen or fresh peas, carrots, corn, green beans
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped or ½ teaspoon dried
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup dry sherry or white wine optional
- Grated Parmesan cheese optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- If using, stir in the sherry or white wine. Let it simmer for a minute to cook off the alcohol.
- Add the orzo pasta to the pot and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Stir in the mixed vegetables and cooked chicken. Cook until heated through, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream, thyme, and parsley.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth. To prevent the orzo from sticking, stir frequently during the last few minutes of cooking and add a splash of broth or water if needed. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Crispy bacon bits or sauteed mushrooms are also delicious additions. If you want to make a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or spinach.