Name: Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces; 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1½ cups uncooked orzo pasta; 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth; ½ cup BBQ sauce, plus extra for drizzling; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1½ cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded; 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled; 2 green onions, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Description

This Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo is a weeknight game-changer! Juicy chicken, creamy pasta, and gooey cheese come together in just 30 minutes with only one pan to wash afterward.

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1½ cups uncooked orzo pasta
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
½ cup BBQ sauce, plus extra for drizzling
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1½ cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
2 green onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

Pat chicken dry, season with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown chicken in batches for 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate.
Add remaining oil to the pan. Cook onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds. Add orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Pour in chicken broth, scraping up browned bits. Add paprika and oregano. Return chicken to pan, cover, and simmer on medium-low for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
When orzo is nearly tender, stir in ¼ cup BBQ sauce. Cook uncovered 2-3 minutes. Ensure chicken is cooked through (165°F). Remove from heat and stir in half the cheese.
Drizzle remaining BBQ sauce on top and sprinkle with remaining cheese. Broil 1-2 minutes until cheese is bubbly. Top with bacon, green onions, and cilantro. Rest 5 minutes before serving.