There is something magical about a warm bowl of comfort on a crisp autumn evening.

This Creamy Chicken Orzo gives you all the classic pot pie flavors without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You will love how this recipe saves you time on busy nights.

There is no pie crust to roll out or bake today. Everything cooks together in one single pot for you. This makes cleanup a total breeze after dinner. It is a budget-friendly meal that feels like a special treat. Your kids will love the tiny, tender pasta shapes. It is the perfect cozy dinner for a chilly fall night.

Simple Cooking Steps

This method is very simple for any beginner cook to follow. You start by softening your fresh vegetables in golden butter. Then you brown the chicken and stir in the flour. The orzo cooks right in the savory chicken broth. You finish it with a splash of cream and peas. It is practically foolproof and so satisfying to make for your family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses fresh vegetables and mostly pantry staples you already have.

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup yellow onion, diced
1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup celery, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1 cup dry orzo pasta
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 cup frozen peas
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Step-by-Step

Melt butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic and chicken pieces, cooking until chicken is browned on all sides, about 4 minutes.
Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir constantly for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
Slowly whisk in chicken broth to avoid lumps, then bring to a simmer.
Stir in the dry orzo, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
Stir in heavy cream and frozen peas; cook for an additional 2 minutes until heated through and sauce is thickened.
Adjust seasoning to taste and serve immediately.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serve this dish warm in deep, cozy bowls. It looks beautiful with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. You can pair it with a simple side salad. A piece of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the sauce. Set the table and enjoy a quiet moment with your family.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh and delicious for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water first. Warm it gently on the stove over medium-low heat. This helps keep the sauce creamy and the orzo tender. It does not freeze well because of the pasta texture.

Tips for Best Results

Use a heavy skillet to ensure even cooking and heat.
Do not skip the flour step for a thick, velvety sauce.
Cut chicken into small pieces so they cook very fast.
Add a handful of fresh spinach for extra green nutrition.
For a holiday feel, add a pinch of dried sage.
Stir the orzo occasionally so it does not stick down.
Use low-sodium broth to control the final salt levels.
Taste the sauce before serving to adjust the seasoning perfectly.

Easy Flavor Ideas

Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter version.
Use turkey instead of chicken for a post-holiday meal.
Add sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor boost in autumn.
Use gluten-free flour and pasta if your family needs it.

Common Questions

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, you can prep the vegetables the day before. This makes the cooking process even faster on busy nights.

Can I use a different pasta?

Small shapes like ditalini or mini shells work well too. Just check the package for the correct simmering time.

Is this kid-friendly?

Yes, the mild flavors and soft texture are perfect for kids. They often call it pot pie pasta!

I hope this cozy meal brings warmth to your home tonight. It is one of my favorite ways to feed my family. Give it a try and see how easy it is!

— Lidia