WHY MAKE THIS RECIPE
Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo is a delicious and hearty dish that can become a staple in your kitchen. This recipe stands out because it combines the comforting flavors of creamy chicken and cheese with the fun texture of orzo pasta. It’s a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze. Perfect for family dinners or a weeknight meal, this dish is both easy to prepare and packed with nutrition. The use of spinach adds a boost of vitamins while the crispy fried onions provide a delightful crunch. If you enjoy a cozy meal that doesn’t require much fuss, this recipe is for you!
HOW TO MAKE Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo
Ingredients
- 1 can (10.5 oz) unsalted cream of chicken soup
- 1 container (16 oz) sour cream
- 2½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1 package (16 oz) orzo pasta, uncooked
- 1 package (10 oz) frozen spinach, thawed and thoroughly drained
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced (about 1 pound)
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (reserve 1 cup for topping)
- 1 can (6 oz) crispy fried onions, divided
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (reserved from above)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
DIRECTIONS
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Prepare Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
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Create the Creamy Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth until smooth and well combined. This forms the creamy base of your casserole.
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Add Seasonings and Dry Ingredients: Stir in the onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the creamy base.
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Incorporate Main Components: Add the uncooked orzo pasta, thoroughly drained spinach, diced chicken, and 2 cups of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese to the bowl. Gently fold everything together until all ingredients are coated with the creamy mixture. Add half of the crispy fried onions and stir to combine.
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Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
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Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the top, followed by the remaining crispy fried onions.
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Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
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Finish Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted, the edges are bubbling, and the topping has turned golden brown.
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Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
HOW TO SERVE Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo
Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo is great served right out of the oven, hot and bubbly. A simple side salad pairs well, adding freshness and crunch to your meal. If you have extra fresh herbs, sprinkling some on top can elevate the dish further. The creamy, cheesy orzo can be enjoyed on its own, but a slice of crusty bread can be delightful for soaking up the goodness. This dish is also filling enough to stand alone, making it perfect for a family meal.
HOW TO STORE Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish can last up to 3-4 days when stored properly. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through. If you find the orzo has absorbed too much moisture, adding a splash of chicken broth can help restore its creaminess. This makes it possible to enjoy this comforting meal even on busy days.
TIPS TO MAKE Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo
- Cooked Chicken: If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken works great. Just shred it and add it to your mixture.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach can be used instead of frozen. If using fresh, make sure to sauté it in a little olive oil until wilted before adding to the mix.
- Make it Ahead: This dish can be prepared ahead of time. Assemble all ingredients in your baking dish, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Cheddar or mozzarella can add a unique twist to the flavor.
- Seasonings: Customize the seasonings to your taste. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give it a little kick.
VARIATIONS
If you’re looking to switch things up, there are several ways to vary the Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo recipe:
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with more vegetables, such as mushrooms and bell peppers. Ensure to sauté them before mixing.
- Different Pasta: While orzo is fantastic, other small pasta shapes like ditalini or pasta shells can be used as an alternative.
- Add Bacon: For a smoky flavor, consider adding cooked and crumbled bacon to the mixture.
- Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs like basil or thyme added before serving can provide an extra burst of flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use whole wheat orzo instead of regular orzo?
Yes, whole wheat orzo can be used for a healthier option. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
2. Is it possible to freeze Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo?
Absolutely! You can freeze the baked casserole in an airtight container. When ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before eating.
3. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, use gluten-free orzo and ensure that the cream of chicken soup and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo is a simple yet satisfying dish that brings comfort food to your table. It’s made with easy-to-find ingredients and won’t take up your entire evening in the kitchen. Enjoy this delectable meal with your family and see how it quickly becomes a favorite!
Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth until smooth and well combined.
- Stir in the onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to distribute the seasonings.
- Add the uncooked orzo pasta, drained spinach, diced chicken, and 2 cups of shredded Monterey Jack cheese to the bowl. Gently fold everything together.
- Add half of the crispy fried onions and stir to combine.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the reserved 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese and remaining crispy fried onions on top.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.