Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo Recipe

Introduction

This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo is a comforting twist on classic pot pie flavors, transformed into a hearty, creamy pasta dish. It combines tender chicken, vegetables, and orzo in a rich, flavorful sauce that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 8 ounces orzo pasta
• 2 celery stalks, finely diced
• 2 carrots, finely diced
• ½ yellow onion, finely diced
• 5 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots, and cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Step 2: Stir in the onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the diced chicken and mix well to combine.
3. Step 3: Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and stir to coat it with the butter and oil. Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle the chicken bouillon powder over the mixture.
4. Step 4: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Step 5: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy whipping cream and remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and thickened.
6. Step 6: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm for a comforting meal.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a handful of frozen peas or chopped fresh herbs like thyme or parsley before serving.
• Use cooked rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra seasoning.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of chicken broth or add a teaspoon of flour when cooking the vegetables.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or small shells work well as substitutes, but adjust cooking time accordingly since pasta sizes vary.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

You can freeze this dish, but the cream sauce might separate upon thawing. It’s best to freeze before adding the cream and butter, then add them fresh when reheating.

Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 108 reviews

This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo recipe is a comforting and hearty dish combining tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and creamy sauce served with orzo pasta. It’s a delightful twist on traditional chicken pot pie flavors but in a quicker, stovetop-friendly orzo format.

• Author: Tara
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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Chicken and Seasoning

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Vegetables

• 2 celery stalks, finely diced
• 2 carrots, finely diced
• ½ yellow onion, finely diced

Pasta and Liquids

• 8 ounces orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream

Fats and Flavorings

• 5 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the cooked and diced chicken breasts with onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add diced celery, carrots, and yellow onion. Cook until the vegetables are softened and aromatic, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Orzo: Stir the orzo pasta into the skillet with the vegetables and toast it lightly for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
4. Simmer with Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, add chicken bouillon powder, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the orzo is cooked and liquid is mostly absorbed, about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Incorporate Cream and Chicken: Stir in the heavy whipping cream and the seasoned diced chicken. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until everything is heated through and creamy.
6. Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve warm as a comforting, creamy dinner option.

Notes

• You can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
• For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk but note the sauce will be less rich.
• If you prefer, add peas or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
• Stir frequently during simmering to avoid orzo sticking or burning.
• This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed greens.

Keywords: chicken pot pie orzo, creamy chicken orzo, stovetop chicken orzo, comfort food, quick chicken dinner