introduction
One Pan Sweet Honey Garlic Parmesan Chicken Orzo is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken thighs, creamy orzo pasta, and a sweet honey garlic sauce. This one-pan meal is not only easy to make, but it also minimizes cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
why make this recipe
There are several reasons to love this recipe. First, it’s quick to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Second, it combines the savory flavors of garlic and chicken with the sweetness of honey, creating a delicious harmony in every bite. Finally, it uses only one pan, which means less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal!
how to make One Pan Sweet Honey Garlic Parmesan Chicken Orzo
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil
Directions:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano. Cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds before adding honey and soy sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the chicken broth and orzo. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 10 minutes until the orzo is tender.
- Mix in the chopped spinach and Parmesan cheese until wilted. Return the chicken to the skillet and heat through for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with parsley.
how to serve One Pan Sweet Honey Garlic Parmesan Chicken Orzo
This dish is best served hot straight from the pan. You can add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to complete the meal.
how to store One Pan Sweet Honey Garlic Parmesan Chicken Orzo
To store leftovers, let the dish cool down completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It can last up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.
tips to make One Pan Sweet Honey Garlic Parmesan Chicken Orzo
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, you can reduce the amount of honey or add a splash of vinegar for balance.
- Use whole wheat orzo for a healthier option.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra nutrition and flavor.
variation
For a different twist, you can substitute chicken thighs with boneless skinless chicken breasts. You can also try adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a bright zing.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, you can use other small pasta shapes like rice or even quinoa, but cooking times may vary.
Is this dish gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and combine them with the orzo and spinach when ready to eat.
One Pan Sweet Honey Garlic Parmesan Chicken Orzo
A delightful one-pan meal featuring tender chicken thighs, creamy orzo pasta, and a sweet honey garlic sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano. Cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the minced garlic in the same skillet for 30 seconds before adding honey and soy sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the chicken broth and orzo. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 10 minutes until the orzo is tender.
- Mix in the chopped spinach and Parmesan cheese until wilted. Return the chicken to the skillet and heat through for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with parsley.
Notes
For less sweetness, reduce honey or add vinegar. Substitute with whole wheat orzo for a healthier option. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pan Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-free option available
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
