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Creamy chicken pot pie orzo in a large skillet with tender chicken pieces and vegetables in white cream sauce

Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo

A hearty one-pot wonder that transforms classic chicken pot pie into a velvety, cozy pasta dish with tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and a lusciously creamy sauce coating pillows of orzo.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 5 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts cooked and diced
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 8 ounces orzo pasta
  • 2 celery stalks finely diced
  • 2 carrots finely diced
  • 1/2 yellow onion finely diced
  • 5 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour

Equipment

  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • Pot for cooking orzo
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Cook the orzo according to package directions until just barely al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
  2. Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let it rest for 5 minutes, then dice into bite-sized pieces.
  3. In your largest skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter with olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, then sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and the onion becomes translucent.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and sprinkle the flour evenly over the softened vegetables. Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and create a smooth roux.
  5. Still on low heat, slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking constantly, followed by the heavy whipping cream. Keep whisking until you achieve a smooth, lump-free sauce that begins to thicken, about 3-4 minutes.
  6. Sprinkle in the chicken bouillon powder and stir well. Add your diced chicken and let the mixture simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until the sauce reaches your preferred thickness. Finally, fold in the cooked orzo and stir everything together until creamy and well combined. Heat through for 2 minutes, then serve immediately.

Notes

Cook orzo just until al dente to prevent mushiness. Rotisserie chicken is a wonderful time-saving shortcut. The sauce may thicken as it sits, so add a splash of broth or cream when reheating. Can add frozen peas in the last step if desired.