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A colorful plate of The Ultimate Orzo Dinner featuring perfectly cooked orzo pasta garnished with fresh herbs, cherry tomatoes, and grated cheese.

The Ultimate Orzo Dinner: A Culinary Essential

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Discover the ultimate orzo dinner recipe that’s quick, flavorful, and versatile. Perfect for family meals, this delightful dish combines tender orzo pasta with savory chicken, fresh vegetables, and a cheesy finish. Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients, it’s the perfect go-to for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup cooked chicken (rotisserie or grilled), shredded
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Gather all ingredients and prepare them by chopping, mincing, halving, and shredding as needed.
  2. In a large skillet, bring vegetable or chicken broth to a boil. Add the orzo and cook until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil over medium heat in the same skillet. Sauté onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they soften, about 2 minutes. Stir in spinach and shredded chicken, cooking until the spinach wilts.
  5. Return the cooked orzo to the skillet. Mix well, then top with Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to meld flavors.

Notes

  • Feel free to substitute cooked shrimp, tofu, or roasted vegetables for chicken.
  • Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor and presentation.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Nut-Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 420 Kcal
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 560mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg