If you’re craving a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then the Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Combining tender, smoky chicken with the creamy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of Monterey Jack cheese, all mingling beautifully with perfectly cooked orzo pasta, this dish brings together on-trend flavors and comforting textures in a single skillet. Easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to share with guests, this recipe delivers layers of flavor and color that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Each component not only adds flavor but also texture and a burst of color that makes the dish so inviting.
- Olive oil: The golden base for sautéing that adds subtle richness and helps develop those beautiful browned bits on the chicken.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick and even cooking, they are the hearty protein star of the dish.
- Salt and black pepper: The essential seasonings that elevate every other flavor.
- Garlic powder and smoked paprika: A dynamic duo that brings warmth, smokiness, and depth to the chicken.
- Yellow onion: Diced to soften into sweetness, creating a luscious flavor base.
- Garlic cloves: Minced fresh garlic adds a punch of aromatic brightness.
- Uncooked orzo pasta: Tiny and tender, it’s the perfect vehicle to soak up all the delicious juices.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Adds moisture and a savory backbone without overpowering other flavors.
- Barbecue sauce: Brings tangy, smoky sweetness that’s simply irresistible.
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Creamy and mild, it melts perfectly for that luscious, cheesy finish.
- Cooked and crumbled bacon: Adds a delightful crunch and smoky saltiness that contrasts beautifully with the cheese.
- Diced tomatoes: Fresh bursts of juiciness and vibrant color brighten the dish.
- Chopped green onions: Provide a crisp, fresh bite and lovely green flecks.
- Fresh parsley (optional): For a pop of herbal freshness and an elegant finishing touch.
How to Make Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken and Seasonings
Start by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat—this sets the stage for all the flavors to come. Toss in the bite-sized chicken pieces, then sprinkle on salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Let the chicken cook for about 5 to 6 minutes until it’s lightly browned and nearly cooked through, soaking in all those wonderful spices.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Push the chicken to one side of the pan to make room and add the diced yellow onion. It only takes 2 to 3 minutes for the onions to soften and release their natural sweetness. Stir in the minced garlic next and let it cook for just a minute more to unlock that unmistakable aroma that will make your kitchen smell absolutely irresistible!
Step 3: Incorporate Orzo and Liquids
Add the uncooked orzo right into the skillet and stir it around to coat every tiny pasta piece in those flavorful pan juices. Pour in the chicken broth along with the barbecue sauce, mixing it all together so every bite will have that perfect sweet, smoky balance. Bring the skillet to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover.
Step 4: Cook the Orzo Until Tender
Let everything cook gently for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow simmer allows the orzo to absorb all the liquid, resulting in creamy pasta that’s tender but still holds its shape. The rich sauce will start to thicken, clinging to each morsel of chicken and pasta.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Toppings
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in half of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese for that gooey, luscious texture. Sprinkle the remaining cheese, crumbled bacon, diced tomatoes, and chopped green onions on top. Cover the pan again for about 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt perfectly while the toppings warm through.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
For that final touch, scatter fresh parsley over the skillet. It adds a bright splash of color and a bit of herby freshness that rounds out the dish beautifully. Serve it warm and prepare for a dining experience that’s as heartwarming as it is delicious.
How to Serve Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic garnish, but feel free to add a squeeze of lemon juice for a hint of brightness, or sprinkle some red pepper flakes if you love a little kick. The colorful green onions and tomatoes offer an inviting appearance that makes this dish as attractive as it is appetizing.
Side Dishes
This one-pan wonder shines as a meal all on its own, but if you want to round it out, consider crisp, refreshing sides like a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette, or roasted vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli. Garlic bread also makes a wonderful accompaniment to sop up any leftover sauce on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo Recipe family-style right from the skillet for a cozy, communal vibe. Alternatively, portion it into individual bowls and garnish each with extra cheese and herbs for a more elegant presentation. This recipe also works fantastically in meal prep containers for grab-and-go lunches that still feel indulgent.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftover Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo Recipe into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop even more as it rests, making your next meal just as delightful.
Freezing
If you want to save it for later, freezing is a great option. Portion the dish into freezer-safe containers and it will keep well for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to evenly warm the orzo and melt the cheese again. You can also microwave individual servings, adding a splash of broth or water to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Monterey Jack cheese melts beautifully and has a mild flavor, you can substitute mozzarella, cheddar, or even a Mexican cheese blend for a slightly different taste profile.
Is it necessary to brown the chicken first?
Browning the chicken adds a wonderful depth of flavor and color, but if you’re short on time, you can skip that step and cook the chicken directly with the orzo. Just make sure it’s cooked through.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini, and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You might want to add some smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic that smoky flavor.
How spicy is the Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo Recipe?
This recipe has a mild warmth from the smoked paprika but is not spicy. If you want to add heat, try adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce to taste.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and reheat it?
Definitely! This dish reheats well and keeps its flavors nicely. Prepare it fully and store in the fridge, then reheat on the stove or microwave for an easy, quick meal later.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and satisfying about the Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo Recipe that makes it a standout in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re feeding family or entertaining friends, this dish strikes the perfect balance of ease, flavor, and presentation. Give it a try—you’ll soon see why it’s loved as much in my kitchen as it will be in yours!
Print
Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo is a flavorful and comforting American main course featuring tender chicken pieces cooked with smoky spices, sautéed onions and garlic, and tender orzo pasta simmered in a savory barbecue sauce and chicken broth. Topped with melted Monterey Jack cheese, crispy bacon, fresh tomatoes, and green onions, this one-pan skillet meal is quick, easy to prepare, and perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Pasta and Liquids
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering and hot.
- Cook the chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet along with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned and mostly cooked through.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Push the chicken to one side of the skillet. Add the diced onion to the empty side and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add orzo and liquids: Stir the uncooked orzo pasta into the skillet, coating it in the pan juices. Pour in the chicken broth and barbecue sauce, stirring to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the orzo: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Melt cheese and add toppings: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in half of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top along with the crumbled bacon, diced tomatoes, and chopped green onions. Cover for 2–3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve the dish warm. Enjoy a flavorful and hearty one-pan meal perfect for any day of the week.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken for a quicker version of this recipe.
- Add a handful of baby spinach in the last few minutes of cooking for extra vegetables.
- This dish reheats well and is perfect for meal prep.
