This creamy chicken pot pie orzo is a warm hug in a bowl! Soft orzo pasta swims in a rich, comforting chicken sauce filled with veggies that make every bite feel special.
Honestly, who needs pie crust when you have this creamy goodness? I love how quick it is to whip up, leaving more time for cozying up on the couch. Perfect for chilly nights! 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil or Butter: I typically favor butter for its rich flavor, but olive oil is a healthier option. You could also use coconut oil for a different twist, which adds a subtle sweetness.
Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta is perfect for a creamy dish, but if you don’t have orzo, feel free to swap it with ditalini, small shells, or even rice for a thicker texture.
Chicken: While cooked chicken breast is ideal, rotisserie chicken can save time. In a pinch, canned chicken works too! Just rinse off extra sodium.
Milk: I usually go for whole milk for creaminess, but you can use 2% or even unsweetened almond milk for a lighter version.
Vegetables: Frozen peas are a great addition for ease, but any mix of frozen veggies will do. You can even sneak in spinach or kale for extra nutrition!
How Can I Achieve the Right Creaminess?
To nail that creamy texture, the key is initially cooking the flour well to thicken the sauce. Here’s how:
- Coat the sautéed veggies evenly with flour to avoid clumping.
- Add your chicken broth and milk gradually while stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
- Let it simmer before adding the orzo. This helps build that smooth foundation! Adjust with more milk or broth if it gets too thick.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have the perfect creamy consistency every time!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/3 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time. So, in about 35 minutes, you will have a delicious creamy chicken pot pie orzo ready to serve! Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with Sautéing the Veggies:
In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onions, diced carrots, and celery. SautĂ© them for about 5-7 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. It’s the base of your flavor!
2. Add Garlic for Extra Flavor:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute. Stir it around until you can smell its lovely aroma. This is the moment when everything starts to smell delicious!
3. Incorporate the Flour:
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed veggies and stir well to coat everything. This step is essential as it helps thicken the sauce later. Cook this mixture for about 1-2 minutes to remove that raw flour taste.
4. Mix in the Liquids:
Now, it’s time to pour in the chicken broth slowly while you stir the mixture continuously. This will help avoid any lumps. Once combined, add the milk and give it all a good stir again.
5. Seasoning Time:
Next up, add in the dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and bring the whole mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Adding the Orzo:
Once simmering, add the orzo pasta. Cook it for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is nice and tender and the sauce thickens into a creamy consistency.
7. Final Touches with Chicken and Peas:
Now, stir in the cooked chicken and frozen peas. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the chicken is heated through, and the peas are tender. We’re almost there!
8. Taste and Adjust:
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with a bit more salt and pepper if you feel it needs it. It should be flavorful and satisfying!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the creamy chicken pot pie orzo warm, and if you like, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for that extra touch. Enjoy your cozy, hearty dinner!
This creamy chicken pot pie orzo is sure to become a favorite! It’s hearty, easy to make, and offers all the comforting flavors of the classic pot pie in a delightful pasta form.
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta Instead of Orzo?
Absolutely! If you don’t have orzo on hand, you can substitute it with ditalini, small shells, or even rice. Just keep an eye on the cooking time for whatever pasta you choose to ensure it stays tender without overcooking.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
No problem! Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more veggies, such as mushrooms or spinach, to make it deliciously hearty!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the entire dish in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just keep in mind that the orzo will absorb some of the liquid as it sits, so you might want to add extra broth or milk when reheating to bring back the creaminess!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of broth or milk as needed to restore its creamy texture. Enjoy!
