As a baker and home cook, I’m always searching for recipes that are not only delicious but also easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners. One evening, while browsing through my favorite cookbooks, I stumbled upon an orzo recipe that immediately caught my eye. The combination of tender orzo pasta, savory chicken ham, fresh vegetables, and a touch of creamy sauce promised a meal that was both comforting and satisfying. I knew right away that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen.

You will love this recipe because it brings together flavors that are rich yet subtle, making it suitable for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. The orzo absorbs the sauce beautifully, ensuring that each bite is packed with flavor. Additionally, it is versatile, allowing you to adjust the vegetables or protein to suit your taste or whatever you have in your fridge. Whether served as a main course or as a side dish, this recipe never disappoints.

This recipe is also budget-friendly. Orzo is an affordable pasta option, and the combination of chicken ham and vegetables keeps the cost low without compromising on taste. It’s perfect for feeding a family or meal prepping for the week. By using ingredients that are easy to find in any grocery store, you can create a dish that tastes gourmet without the hassle or expense.

Here are the ingredients you will need for this recipe:

1 cup orzo pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken ham, diced
1 cup fresh spinach or other leafy greens
1 cup diced bell peppers
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream or a non-dairy alternative
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth

This combination of ingredients ensures that the orzo is creamy, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned. The mix of textures from the tender pasta, soft vegetables, and slightly chewy chicken ham creates a satisfying dinner experience that everyone at the table will enjoy.

How to Prepare This Recipe

Preparing this orzo dinner is simple, quick, and customizable, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals. Follow these step-by-step instructions to achieve a creamy, flavorful dish that everyone will love.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Orzo:
Begin by bringing 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth to a boil in a medium-sized pot. Once boiling, add 1 cup of orzo pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually 8–10 minutes, until the pasta is tender but still slightly firm. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain any excess liquid and set the orzo aside.
Prepare the Vegetables:
While the orzo cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Cook the Chicken Ham:
Add 1 cup of diced chicken ham to the skillet and cook for 3–5 minutes until lightly browned. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
Add the Vegetables:
Mix in 1 cup of diced bell peppers and 1 cup of fresh spinach or other leafy greens. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring continuously, until the vegetables are slightly softened but still retain their color and texture.
Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
Reduce the heat to low and pour in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or a non-dairy alternative. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs, then season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir the mixture until fully combined and slightly thickened, which usually takes 2–3 minutes.
Combine Orzo and Sauce:
Add the cooked orzo to the skillet with the sauce and vegetables. Gently stir to coat the pasta evenly. Continue cooking for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Finish with Cheese:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly to create a creamy, cohesive dish. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Tips for Quick and Easy Preparation

Use pre-chopped vegetables to save time.
Substitute leftover cooked chicken for chicken ham if desired.
Prepare the orzo in advance and reheat it with the sauce for a speedy weeknight dinner.

Customization Options

Add mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrients.
Use a non-dairy cream alternative to make the dish lighter or vegan-friendly.
Top with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a fresh, aromatic touch.

This orzo recipe is popular with many people because it combines comforting flavors with a creamy texture that appeals to both adults and kids. Its versatility allows you to adjust ingredients based on what’s available, making it a reliable go-to dinner option for any occasion.

Best Orzo Dinner Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This Best Orzo Dinner Recipe is a creamy, comforting, and versatile meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. With tender orzo pasta, savory chicken ham, fresh vegetables, and a rich sauce, this dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare. It’s budget-friendly, customizable, and guaranteed to please a variety of tastes.

Author: Lura Skye
Prep Time: 10
Cook Time: 20
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 1x

Instructions

Cook the Orzo: Boil 2 cups of broth in a medium pot. Add 1 cup orzo and cook 8–10 minutes until tender but slightly firm. Drain any excess liquid.
Sauté Onions and Garlic: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chopped onion for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
Cook Chicken Ham: Add 1 cup diced chicken ham. Cook 3–5 minutes until lightly browned, stirring frequently.
Add Vegetables: Stir in 1 cup diced bell peppers and 1 cup fresh spinach. Cook 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.
Prepare Sauce: Reduce heat to low. Pour in 1/2 cup cream or alternative. Add 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Stir until thickened, about 2–3 minutes.
Combine Orzo and Sauce: Add cooked orzo to the skillet. Mix gently to coat evenly. Cook 2–3 minutes to meld flavors.
Add Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve: Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh herbs.

Notes

Pre-chopped vegetables save time.

Leftover cooked chicken can replace chicken ham.

Add mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for variety.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
A: Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like couscous, small shells, or ditalini. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the pasta used.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. Prepare the orzo and sauce separately, then combine and reheat just before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: How can I make this dish lighter?
A: Use a low-fat cream alternative or unsweetened plant-based milk. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or replace it with nutritional yeast for a lighter, flavorful option.

Q: Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
A: Yes, you can freeze the prepared orzo in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

Q: Can I add protein other than chicken ham?
A: Definitely. Turkey, cooked chicken, or even shrimp can be added to customize the dish according to your preference.

Q: What vegetables work best in this recipe?
A: Bell peppers, spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, and peas work well. You can mix and match based on what’s in season or available in your fridge.

Q: How can I make it more flavorful?
A: Add fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme at the end of cooking. A squeeze of lemon juice also brightens the dish without changing the creamy texture.