There is something incredibly comforting and satisfying about a meal that comes together in just one pan, and the Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo Recipe hits all the right notes. It’s a vibrant, flavorful dish combining tender chicken breasts seared to perfection, tender orzo pasta soaking up rich chicken broth, and colorful sautéed veggies like bell peppers and zucchini. Finished with a luscious barbecue sauce drizzle, this recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser that makes weeknight dinners both easy and delicious. You will love how effortlessly it brings a full, hearty plate to your table with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in the Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo Recipe plays a crucial role, creating a balance of texture and flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. From the juicy chicken to the delicate orzo and lively veggies, everything works together beautifully.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These provide tender, juicy protein and a mild canvas for the smoky barbecue sauce.
- Orzo pasta: This small pasta cooks quickly and absorbs all those wonderful cooking juices.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Adds depth and moisture to cook the orzo, infusing it with savory richness without overpowering the dish.
- Bell peppers, diced: They brighten the dish with sweet, fresh flavor and add beautiful, vibrant color.
- Zucchini, diced: Adds a subtle crunch and fresh earthiness that balances the smoky notes.
- Garlic, minced: A flavor essential, boosting aroma and taste with its warm, pungent punch.
- Barbecue sauce: This finishing touch brings smoky sweetness that ties the entire dish together.
How to Make Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a large oven-safe skillet with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. This simple prep step helps create a golden sear on the chicken, locking in juices as it cooks.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken Breasts
Season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Place them carefully in the hot skillet over medium-high heat and sear for about 5 minutes per side until beautifully golden brown. This caramelization adds incredible flavor and texture to the meat.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables for Freshness
Remove the chicken and set it aside. Into the same skillet, toss in the diced bell peppers, zucchini, and minced garlic. Sauté these colorful veggies for about 3 minutes. This step softens them just enough to release fragrant aromas without losing their bright flavors and lovely snap.
Step 4: Combine Orzo and Broth
Next, stir in the orzo pasta and pour in the chicken broth. Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them atop the orzo and veggies. Bring everything to a gentle boil, making sure all ingredients start mingling their flavors nicely together. Then, cover the skillet with a lid or foil, preparing it for oven cooking.
Step 5: Bake Until Perfect
Transfer the covered skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. During this time, the chicken finishes cooking to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), and the orzo becomes delectably tender, soaking up all those savory juices.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touch
Remove from the oven and serve immediately, drizzling generous spoonfuls of barbecue sauce over the chicken. This smoky, sweet glaze amplifies the dish’s flavor profile and adds a gorgeous finishing shine that’s irresistible.
How to Serve Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or cilantro adds vibrant color and a herbaceous contrast that balances the smoky barbecue sauce wonderfully. Thin slices of green onions or a light dusting of grated Parmesan can also elevate presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This all-in-one pan dish stands strong on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, a fresh garden salad with a zesty vinaigrette or some crusty bread for sopping up the sauce would be perfect companions. Roasted asparagus or a simple cucumber salad add nice crispness alongside the tender main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties or special occasions, serve the chicken sliced on a platter surrounded by the orzo and veggies. Drizzle extra barbecue sauce in a decorative pattern or offer it on the side for dipping. Individual servings plated with a lemon wedge add a touch of brightness and make the experience feel more festive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after resting, making for tasty next-day lunches or dinners. Be sure to cool the dish to room temperature before refrigerating to preserve freshness.
Freezing
This Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo Recipe freezes well if you want to prepare it in advance. Portion the cooled meal into freezer-safe containers, and it will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the orzo. Alternatively, microwave in 1-minute increments, stirring in between, until warmed through. Add a fresh drizzle of barbecue sauce to revive that smoky sweetness.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will be juicier and more forgiving during cooking. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are fully cooked through.
Is it possible to make this recipe without an oven?
Yes, you can complete the entire cooking process on the stovetop by simmering the covered skillet on low heat until the orzo is tender and chicken is cooked through. Just keep an eye on the liquid level.
What if I want to add more vegetables?
Feel free to toss in extra diced vegetables like mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or spinach. Add them at the sauté stage according to their cooking times to ensure everything cooks perfectly.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute the orzo pasta with a gluten-free pasta or use quinoa or rice. Adjust cooking times and liquid amounts accordingly for desired texture.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe is mild and family-friendly. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes during the vegetable sauté or serve with a hot sauce on the side.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a straightforward and satisfying meal that impresses with minimal clean-up, the Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo Recipe is a must-try. This dish combines the comfort of tender chicken, the heartiness of orzo, and the fresh brightness of veggies with a delightful barbecue twist that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I can’t wait for you to make it your own and share it with friends and family—they will be asking for the recipe before dinner is even finished.
Print
Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo recipe combines tender seared chicken breasts with flavorful sautéed vegetables and tender orzo, all cooked together in one skillet for an easy, hearty meal. Finished with a drizzle of barbecue sauce, it’s a delicious and convenient dinner option perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Nonstick cooking spray
Orzo and Vegetables
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1 cup zucchini, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Finishing Sauce
- ½ cup barbecue sauce
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a large oven-safe skillet with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Season and Sear Chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Place them in the heated skillet over medium-high heat and sear each side for about 5 minutes until they develop a golden-brown crust.
- Sauté Vegetables: Remove the chicken temporarily from the skillet. Add the diced bell peppers, zucchini, and minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté for about 3 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and become fragrant.
- Add Orzo and Broth: Stir in the orzo pasta and pour in the chicken broth. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them among the orzo and vegetables. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil to trap steam.
- Bake in Oven: Transfer the covered skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and that the orzo is tender.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and plate the chicken with the orzo and vegetables. Drizzle barbecue sauce over the chicken just before serving to add a smoky, tangy finish.
Notes
- You can substitute turkey breasts if preferred for leaner protein.
- If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, transfer everything to a baking dish after searing the chicken.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes or mushrooms for added flavor.
- Make sure not to overcook the orzo; it should be tender but not mushy.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
