If you’re looking for a meal that’s bursting with comforting flavors and comes together all in one pan, you’ve got to try this Monterey Chicken One-Pan Orzo Recipe. It’s a delightful blend of tender chicken breasts, creamy orzo pasta, and vibrant vegetables, all smothered with melty Monterey Jack cheese. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or any time you want something hearty without the fuss of multiple pots and pans. Every bite feels like a warm hug, and the mix of spices like smoked paprika and oregano gives it a gentle, smoky edge that keeps you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things simple, yet each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. From the creamy cheese to the fresh tomatoes and tender chicken, everything works together like a dream.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that becomes juicy and flavorful with seasoning and searing.
- 1 cup orzo pasta: Tiny pasta pearls that cook quickly and soak up all the savory broth goodness beautifully.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds rich, savory depth to the orzo, making every bite moist and tender.
- 1 cup water: Balances the liquid to ensure perfect orzo texture without being too soupy.
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Melts into creamy decadence for that signature cheesy finish.
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh): Brightens the dish with acidity and vibrant color.
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (red or green): Adds a slight crunch and sweetness to contrast the creamy orzo.
- 1 small onion, diced: Builds the base flavor with natural sweetness when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic kick.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for searing the chicken and sautéing vegetables without overpowering flavors.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds subtle smokiness and a gentle warmth.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Provides an earthy, Mediterranean touch.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A fresh, herbal note to brighten the finished dish.
How to Make Monterey Chicken One-Pan Orzo Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and oregano. This simple seasoning configures the foundation of flavor and will give each bite that irresistible smoky and herbal note that defines this dish.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear them until they develop a beautiful golden crust on each side, about 4 minutes per side. This step locks in juices, making the chicken tender and succulent. After searing, set the chicken aside temporarily.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
In the same skillet, add diced onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté these until they soften and release their sweet, aromatic flavors, about 3 minutes. This creates a vibrant vegetable base that balances the richness of the cheese and chicken perfectly.
Step 4: Add Orzo and Liquids
Next, stir in the orzo pasta, chicken broth, water, and diced tomatoes. This combination will cook together to form a creamy and flavorful orzo bed. Give it a good stir to evenly distribute all the ingredients.
Step 5: Return the Chicken to the Skillet
Gently nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the orzo mixture. This allows the chicken to finish cooking right alongside the pasta, soaking up all the lovely flavors from the broth and vegetables.
Step 6: Simmer Until Done
Cover the skillet and let everything simmer over medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes. This slow simmer ensures the orzo cooks perfectly tender and the chicken reaches a juicy, cooked-through perfection.
Step 7: Melt the Cheese
Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the top of the skillet contents. Cover again and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts into a dreamy, gooey layer, tying the whole dish together.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
To finish, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and fresh herbal brightness. Your Monterey Chicken One-Pan Orzo Recipe is now ready to delight!
How to Serve Monterey Chicken One-Pan Orzo Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that adds a lovely pop of green and a hint of freshness. You can also add a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat and extra flavor dimension.
Side Dishes
This dish is incredibly satisfying on its own, but if you’re looking to round out your meal, a simple crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli pairs wonderfully. They add crunch and freshness to balance the creamy orzo and rich chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve directly from the skillet at the table—it makes for an inviting, rustic feel that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Alternatively, plate the chicken atop a mound of orzo and drizzle with extra cheese and herbs for an elegant touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it an excellent next-day meal. Just be sure to cool it before refrigerating to keep textures intact.
Freezing
This Monterey Chicken One-Pan Orzo Recipe freezes well if stored properly. Use a freezer-safe container and keep it frozen for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to bring back the creamy texture. Microwaving works too—just cover to keep moisture in and heat in short bursts to avoid drying out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Monterey Jack gives this recipe its signature creamy melt and mild flavor, you can substitute with mozzarella, cheddar, or even a blend to vary the taste. Just pick a cheese that melts well.
Is orzo the only pasta I can use?
Orzo is ideal because it cooks quickly and blends perfectly with the other ingredients in one pan. However, small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or even couscous can be experimented with, but cooking times may vary.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the orzo with a gluten-free small pasta or use quinoa for a similar texture and plenty of protein. Just adjust the liquid slightly to accommodate different cooking needs.
Can this dish be made vegetarian?
Definitely! Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken. You can add plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu to keep it hearty.
What’s the best way to know when the chicken is cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer—chicken is perfectly cooked at 165°F (75°C). Alternatively, cut into the thickest part and look for no pink juices and firm meat. The simmering step ensures gentle cooking throughout.
Final Thoughts
This Monterey Chicken One-Pan Orzo Recipe has quickly become one of those go-to meals that feels like a cozy night in a bowl. It’s straightforward, packed with flavor, and offers so much comfort with minimal cleanup. I hope you give it a try soon and enjoy every cheesy, savory bite as much as I do!
Print
Monterey Chicken One-Pan Orzo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring juicy seared chicken breasts cooked with orzo pasta, bell peppers, tomatoes, and melted Monterey Jack cheese. This easy, one-pan meal combines tender chicken and creamy orzo with fresh vegetables and aromatic spices, making it perfect for a quick family dinner.
Ingredients
Protein
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Pasta & Grains
- 1 cup orzo pasta
Liquids
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup water
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (red or green)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Oils & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season them evenly with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and dried oregano, ensuring to coat all sides for maximum flavor.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add diced onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add orzo and liquids: Stir in the orzo pasta, chicken broth, water, and diced tomatoes. Mix everything well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Return chicken to skillet: Nestle the seared chicken breasts into the orzo mixture, ensuring they are partly submerged in the liquid for even cooking.
- Simmer: Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer over medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Add cheese & melt: Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the top of the orzo and chicken. Cover again and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and become gooey.
- Garnish & serve: Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top, and serve the dish warm.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier result, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make the dish suitable for vegetarians if omitting chicken.
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes before serving.
- If fresh tomatoes are out of season, canned diced tomatoes work perfectly well.
- Ensure the skillet is covered tightly while simmering to cook the orzo evenly and keep the chicken moist.
