Creamy One-Pot Chicken & Orzo Recipe

Like mac & cheese grew up and started caring about your hormones.
This cozy one-pot dinner is rich, creamy, and packed with protein — but still light enough to leave you feeling good in your favorite leggings.
I call this my “I need something warm, but I don’t want to feel puffy” meal. It’s my go-to when I want comfort food that actually loves me back. The best part? Everything cooks in one pan. Fewer dishes, faster cleanup, more time for wine.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
Creamy without cream – Greek yogurt makes it rich without the heaviness.
-
One pot = less cleanup – Moms, you feel me.
-
Balanced & satisfying – Protein, carbs, greens, and flavor.
-
Family-approved – My kids devour it, and my husband always goes back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
1 lb chicken thighs or breasts, chopped
-
1 cup dry orzo
-
2 cups fresh spinach
-
3 garlic cloves, minced
-
½ cup plain Greek yogurt
-
2 ½ cups chicken broth
-
Olive oil
-
Salt, pepper, Italian seasoning
How to Make Creamy One-Pot Chicken & Orzo
Step 1:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Step 2:
In the same skillet, add minced garlic, dry orzo, and chicken broth.
Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the broth has reduced.
Step 3:
Stir in spinach, Greek yogurt, and the cooked chicken.
Let everything warm through for 2–3 minutes until creamy and dreamy.
Step 4:
Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with cracked black pepper… and maybe a glass of white wine (Sarah-approved 🍷).
Sarah’s Tips & Substitutions
-
Dairy-free? Use unsweetened coconut yogurt or skip the yogurt and stir in a splash of almond milk + nutritional yeast.
-
Make it heartier: Add mushrooms, peas, or even chopped zucchini.
-
No orzo? Sub with small pasta shapes like ditalini or whole wheat couscous (adjust liquid as needed).
-
Meal prep tip: Stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently.
Final Thoughts from Sarah
This dish is what I make when I want something cozy that doesn't leave me bloated or sluggish afterward. It's comfort food — cleaned up.
Even on the days I’m feeling worn out or hormonal, this meal just hits right. And the best part? It comes together in under 30 minutes with one pan and zero drama.
Wait — Want All My Favorite Summer Dinners in One Easy Download?
Now I’ve bundled the exact 100+ healthy summer dinner recipes that helped me:
-
Lose stubborn weight (without dieting),
-
Stop the bloat,
-
And finally feel confident in my favorite jeans again.
Want a copy? I’d love to share it 💛
👇 Just drop your email and I’ll send it right to your inbox!