Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo (Print Version)
Comforting twist on classic chicken pot pie with creamy orzo, tender chicken, and veggies in a savory sauce.
# Ingredient List:
→ Meats
01 - 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
→ Vegetables
02 - 1 cup carrots, diced
03 - 1 cup frozen peas
04 - 1 cup celery, diced
05 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Base & Pasta
07 - 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
08 - 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
09 - 1 cup whole milk
10 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
11 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
12 - 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
→ Seasonings
13 - 1/2 tsp dried thyme
14 - 1/2 tsp dried parsley
15 - 1/4 tsp black pepper
16 - 1/2 tsp salt
# Directions:
01 - Melt butter in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
02 - Stir in garlic; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir to coat evenly. Cook for 1 minute to remove raw flour taste.
04 - Slowly whisk in chicken broth, then add milk and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly.
05 - Add orzo, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir well. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, uncovered, for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until orzo is al dente and sauce thickens.
06 - Stir in heavy cream, cooked chicken, and peas. Simmer for 3–5 more minutes, until chicken is heated through and the peas are tender. Adjust seasoning as needed.
07 - Remove from heat. Let sit for 2–3 minutes to thicken. Garnish with extra parsley and serve warm.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- You get that classic pot pie flavor profile in less than half the time.
- The entire dinner cooks in a single pan, making cleanup practically nonexistent.
02 -
- Do not step away from the stove once the orzo goes in, as it can stick to the bottom of the pot quickly.
- The sauce will continue to thicken significantly as it sits off the heat.
03 -
- Splash in some white wine with the broth for a layer of acidity.
- Stir frequently to keep the creamy sauce smooth and prevent scorching.