Easy Chicken Orzo Bake Recipe (Creamy & Comforting)
Looking for a cozy and delicious one-pan dinner? This Chicken Orzo Bake is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Made with tender chicken, orzo pasta, vegetables, and a rich sauce, this dish is baked to golden perfection for the ultimate comfort food.
Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep, this chicken orzo casserole is hearty, filling, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Orzo Bake
- A one-pan meal that’s simple and comforting
- Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor
- Perfect for feeding a family or storing as leftovers
- Customizable with vegetables, cheese, or different herbs
Ingredients
For the Bake:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
- 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken breast or thighs, cubed
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta (uncooked)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or milk for lighter version)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & black pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Base
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or casserole dish.
- Add onion, garlic, carrots, and mushrooms. Cook until softened.
2. Cook the Chicken
- Add cubed chicken pieces. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook until lightly browned on all sides.
3. Add Orzo & Sauce
- Stir in the orzo pasta, chicken broth, and cream.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Bake the Casserole
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Transfer skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C).
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
5. Garnish & Serve
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy with garlic bread or salad.
Tips for the Best Chicken Orzo Bake
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- For a lighter version, swap cream with Greek yogurt or milk.
- Add spinach, peas, or broccoli for extra veggies.
- Make it spicy by adding red chili flakes or cayenne.
FAQs about Chicken Orzo Bake
Q: Can I make chicken orzo bake ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the bake, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Can I freeze chicken orzo casserole?
A: Absolutely—store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven.
Q: Can I use other pasta instead of orzo?
A: Yes, small pasta shapes like ditalini or macaroni work well. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
✨ This Chicken Orzo Bake is creamy, cheesy, and easy to make—an ultimate comfort food dish that the whole family will love!
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