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Creamy One-Pot Chicken, Carrot, and Spinach Orzo

Creamy One-Pot Chicken, Carrot, and Spinach Orzo in 30 Minutes

A quick and healthy Creamy One-Pot Chicken, Carrot, and Spinach Orzo recipe that's kid-friendly and perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
For the Orzo
  • 1 cup orzo whole wheat orzo for a healthier option
For the Veggies
  • 2 medium carrots chopped
  • 2 cups fresh spinach washed
For the Creamy Base
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or Gruyere for a richer taste
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative
  • 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup milk or unsweetened oat/almond milk

Equipment

  • large pot or deep skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken into bite-sized pieces and season generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat a drizzle of oil in your large pot over medium heat until shimmering. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
  3. Next, toss in the chopped carrots and stir to combine with the chicken. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the carrots begin to soften. Then, add the fresh spinach, stirring until it wilts—about a minute or so.
  4. After the veggies are tender, mix in the orzo pasta to the pot along with the chicken broth and milk. Stir everything together until well combined.
  5. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow the mixture to cook for 9-11 minutes, depending on the orzo type, stirring occasionally.
  6. When the orzo is tender, remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 12000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2.5mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth or milk.

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