Monterey Chicken One-Pan Orzo is a tasty meal that brings together juicy chicken, colorful veggies, and hearty orzo pasta—all cooked in one pan! It’s simple and quick to make!
This dish is such a time-saver! I love not having to wash a million pots. Plus, the cheesy topping is just the cherry on top. You won’t believe how good it tastes! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness in this dish. If you prefer a leaner option, boneless chicken breasts work just fine. You can also use turkey if you want something different!
Orzo Pasta: Orzo adds a nice, creamy texture to the dish. If you don’t have orzo, feel free to substitute with rice or any small pasta like ditalini. Just adjust the cooking time as needed!
Cheese: Monterey Jack is perfect for its meltiness, but I also enjoy a mix with cheddar. If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, try cashew cheese or any plant-based cheese that melts well.
Onions: Slicing onions brings out their natural sweetness when caramelized. If you want a milder flavor, consider using sweet onions like Vidalia. Shallots are another great alternative!
How Do I Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions gives them a rich flavor that elevates the dish. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your pan on medium heat to avoid burning.
- Add a bit of oil or butter and then the sliced onions. Stir frequently to keep them from sticking.
- Cook for about 10-12 minutes until they become golden brown and soft. Patience is key here; don’t rush it!
Caramelized onions are sweet and add depth to the dish, so don’t skip this step! It’s worth it for the flavor boost.
How to Make Monterey Chicken One-Pan Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Orzo and Veggies:
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a mild kick)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious one-pan Monterey Chicken Orzo takes about 10 minutes to prep and approximately 30-40 minutes to cook, making your total time around 45 minutes. It’s a perfect option for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without all the fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken dry. This helps it sear nicely. Season both sides with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Get that flavor in there!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet or cast-iron pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Place the chicken pieces in the pan and sear them until browned, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside. It’ll return to the pan soon!
3. Caramelize the Onions:
In the same pan, add the sliced onions. Cook them over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and soft—this should take about 10-12 minutes. The goal is to get them nice and golden, so don’t rush it!
4. Add Garlic:
Once your onions are caramelized, add in the minced garlic. Cook for about a minute, just until it starts to smell amazing!
5. Stir in the Orzo:
Add the orzo pasta to the pan and stir well, making sure to coat the orzo with all those flavors from the oil, onions, and garlic.
6. Add the Chicken Broth:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan (that’s flavor right there!). Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
7. Cook the Chicken and Orzo:
Return the seared chicken pieces to the pan, nestling them into the orzo mixture. Cover the pan, reduce the heat to low, and let it cook until the orzo is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through—about 15-20 minutes.
8. Add the Cheesy Goodness:
Once done, remove the lid and sprinkle both the Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover the pan once more for a few minutes to let that cheese melt beautifully.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that pop of color! Now serve hot and get ready to enjoy this scrumptious, cheesy, one-pan meal.
This dish brings together tender chicken, creamy orzo, and sweet caramelized onions, all in one pan for a delightful and hassle-free dinner experience! Enjoy!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of Orzo?
Yes, you can use brown rice. Keep in mind that brown rice will require more liquid and a longer cooking time, usually about 30-40 minutes. Adjust the chicken broth to around 3 cups and check for doneness!
What if I Don’t Have Chicken Broth?
No problem! You can use vegetable broth, or if you’re in a pinch, water can work too. Just remember that using broth will enhance the flavor of the dish. Adding a bit of seasoning can help if using water!
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free version, simply omit the cheese or use dairy-free cheese alternatives that melt well. Coconut cream or cashew cream can add a creamy texture without dairy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems dry.