Pesto Orzo is one of those happy dishes that seems to fit every occasion, from cozy family dinners to festive gatherings. There’s something magical about tender orzo pasta swirling around in a creamy pesto sauce, with sweet sun-dried tomatoes adding a pop of color and flavor. As you stir everything together, the aromas fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist a sneak taste or two. Plus, what’s even better is that this delightful recipe comes together in just one pot. Less time cleaning means more time enjoying meals with loved ones!
Whether you’re a cooking pro or just starting in the kitchen, you’ll find that making pesto orzo is straightforward and fun. This dish highlights fresh ingredients like basil and garlic, promising bright flavors without taking up too much of your evening. The good news is, it’s not just about taste; it’s about bringing everyone together around the dinner table. Ready to whip up a batch? Let’s dive in!
Why This Recipe Works
Pesto orzo is a delightful blend of creamy textures and vibrant flavors, making it a go-to dish for busy families and fancy gatherings alike. The creamy sauce coats the orzo perfectly, enhancing its subtle flavor while the sun-dried tomatoes add a touch of sweetness and acidity. This one-pot wonder not only saves on cleanup but also allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, resulting in a truly harmonious dish.
What makes this recipe shine is its simplicity. You’re essentially creating a comforting meal that feels gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen. Families will appreciate the ease of preparation, while guests will be wowed by the satisfying tastes and colors of this dish. It’s a celebration in every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Pesto Orzo
This recipe is not just about good food—it’s about bringing people together. Featuring shredded chicken and fresh basil, this pesto orzo satisfies cravings for comfort and gourmet dining. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, the versatility and quick cooking time will make this dish a permanent fixture in your culinary repertoire.
Imagine coming home after a long day, eyes tired but stomach grumbling. You want something hearty, something delicious, and fast. This pesto orzo fits the bill perfectly! It’s a warm hug in a bowl, ready to be shared with friends or family. Each bite is packed with flavor, and it’s easy to customize for picky eaters or those with specific dietary needs.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to gather for your perfect pesto orzo:
- 1 1/4 cups uncooked orzo pasta
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tablespoons pesto
- 2 cloves garlic, grated or minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (more if needed)
- 2 cups cooked shredded boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
As you prep your ingredients, take a moment to appreciate the vibrant colors and fresh scents. This will make the cooking process enjoyable, and you might even find yourself inspired to get creative!
Cooking Instructions
Heat the Ingredients Together
To start, grab a deep pan, Dutch oven, or pot and set it over medium-high heat. Combine the uncooked orzo, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, pesto, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir gently for about a minute, allowing the orzo to toast slightly. This little step adds extra depth to the flavor!
Pour in the Chicken Broth
Next, gradually pour in 2 1/4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Season the mixture with a sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Bring everything to a gentle boil, and once you see those bubbles, lower the heat to medium-low.
Cook Until Tender
Now it’s time to let the orzo work its magic. Continue cooking for about 12 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. If you notice the broth is absorbed too quickly, don’t hesitate to add a couple of extra tablespoons of chicken broth. The goal is tender, creamy orzo, so keep an eye on it!
Stir in Cream and Chicken
Once your orzo is cooked to perfection, stir in the heavy cream, shredded chicken, and Parmesan cheese. Allow it all to cook together for an additional minute or so, until it’s warmed through. The combination of flavors will be amazing, and you’ll find it hard to resist sneaking a spoonful before serving!
Garnish and Serve
Before you serve, taste your creation. Add more salt or pepper if you feel it needs a boost. When ready, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped basil for a delightful finish. The fresh basil will really brighten up the dish!
Serving Suggestions
Pesto orzo shines on its own, but it also loves a good companion. Pair this creamy dish with a light side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. If you’re feeling a bit indulgent, garlic bread or crusty artisan rolls would complement the dish beautifully. Just imagine scooping up the creamy orzo with that crunchy bread!
Tips for Success
- For a vegan version, substitute the chicken with extra vegetables or cannellini beans, and swap the cream with coconut milk.
- Adjust the amount of pesto according to your taste—more can give a bolder flavor or less for something milder.
- Keep an eye on the orzo while cooking to prevent it from overcooking and becoming mushy.
Variations
Have fun mixing things up! Here are some ideas to inspire you:
- Add fresh spinach or kale in the final minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
- Swap out the chicken for shrimp or scallops for a seafood twist that’s still easy to make.
- Experiment with different cheeses like feta for a tangy flavor or mozzarella for a gooey texture. The possibilities are endless!
Pairing Ideas
Enjoy this pesto orzo with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir. For an extra refreshing contrast, complement the meal with a citrusy arugula salad. The bright flavors will make your dinner even more enjoyable!
FAQs
1. Can I use whole wheat orzo in this recipe?
Yes, whole wheat orzo can be used; however, cooking time may vary slightly, so adjust as needed.
2. How do I store leftovers of pesto orzo?
Store leftover pesto orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with additional broth if needed.
3. Can I freeze pesto orzo?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze pesto orzo in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
4. How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Replace the cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
5. What’s the best way to reheat pesto orzo?
Reheat over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to help revive the creamy consistency.
This Pesto Orzo recipe is bound to delight anyone at the dinner table. With its creamy texture, vibrant flavors, and easy preparation, it’s the kind of dish that becomes a family favorite in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressive enough for guests, this meal truly embodies comfort and culinary creativity. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll create a dish that’s sure to be requested again and again. Enjoy the deliciousness!
Print
Pesto Orzo
Pesto Orzo is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines tender orzo pasta with sun-dried tomatoes and shredded chicken. Perfect for weeknight meals or special gatherings, it’s easy to make and delightful to share.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups uncooked orzo pasta
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tablespoons pesto
- 2 cloves garlic, grated or minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (more if needed)
- 2 cups cooked shredded boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Heat a deep pan over medium-high heat and combine orzo, sun-dried tomatoes, pesto, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Toast for about a minute.
- Add chicken broth, seasoning with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to medium-low heat.
- Cook for about 12 minutes, stirring often and adding more broth if necessary until the orzo is tender.
- Stir in heavy cream, shredded chicken, and Parmesan cheese. Heat until warmed through.
- Taste and adjust seasonings before garnishing with Parmesan and fresh basil.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
For a vegan version, replace chicken with vegetables or beans and use coconut milk instead of cream.
Adjust pesto quantity to your taste for a stronger or milder flavor.
Monitor the orzo as it cooks to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 16
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Unsaturated Fat: 8
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 28
- Cholesterol: 65
