Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo: Prepare to ditch the pie crust and embrace a comforting, quicker, and equally delicious twist on a classic! Imagine all the warm, savory goodness of chicken pot pie, but transformed into a creamy, spoonable orzo pasta dish. This isn’t just dinner; it’s a hug in a bowl, ready in under an hour.

Chicken pot pie, in its traditional form, has roots stretching back to ancient Greece, where pies were primarily meat-filled pastries. Over centuries, it evolved, finding its way into American cuisine as a symbol of home-cooked comfort. But let’s be honest, sometimes we crave that comforting flavor without the fuss of making (or even buying!) a pie crust. That’s where this Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo shines.

People adore chicken pot pie for its rich, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and medley of vegetables. It’s the ultimate comfort food, evoking feelings of warmth and nostalgia. This orzo version captures all of those beloved elements, but with the added convenience of a one-pot meal. The orzo pasta soaks up all the flavorful sauce, creating a luscious, creamy texture that’s simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in extra veggies for a balanced and satisfying meal. Get ready to experience the magic of chicken pot pie in a whole new, incredibly easy way!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• For the Vegetables:
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup frozen corn
• For the Creamy Sauce:
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup dry sherry (optional, but adds great flavor!)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Orzo:
• 1 cup dry orzo pasta
• Water for cooking orzo
• For the Topping (Optional):
• 1 sheet (14.1 oz) refrigerated pie crust, thawed
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Preparing the Chicken

Alright, let’s get started with the chicken! This is the foundation of our delicious pot pie, so we want to make sure it’s cooked perfectly and seasoned well. I like to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they’re easy to work with, but you could also use chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor.

1. Season the Chicken: In a medium bowl, toss the cubed chicken with the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Make sure each piece is nicely coated with the spices. This step is crucial for building flavor right from the start.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken in a single layer (you might need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan). Sear the chicken on all sides until it’s lightly browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes, depending on the size of your cubes. Don’t worry about cooking it completely at this stage, as it will continue to cook in the sauce later.
3. Remove and Set Aside: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside in a clean bowl. We’ll add it back in later.

Sautéing the Vegetables

Next up, let’s get those veggies nice and tender! The combination of onion, carrots, celery, and mushrooms creates a wonderful depth of flavor that complements the chicken perfectly. Don’t skip this step – it’s essential for a truly satisfying pot pie.

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet (no need to clean it!), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
2. Add the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and continue to sauté until they are tender and have released their moisture, about 5-7 minutes more. The mushrooms will shrink down quite a bit as they cook.
3. Incorporate Frozen Vegetables: Stir in the frozen peas and corn. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, just until they are heated through.

Creating the Creamy Sauce

Now for the star of the show – the creamy, dreamy sauce that brings everything together! This is where the magic happens, transforming simple ingredients into a rich and flavorful masterpiece. Don’t be intimidated by the roux; it’s easier than you think!

1. Make the Roux: In the same skillet with the vegetables, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes, until the mixture is smooth and golden brown. This is called a roux, and it’s the base of our creamy sauce. Be careful not to burn the roux, as this will give the sauce a bitter taste.
2. Whisk in the Liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and milk, making sure to break up any lumps that may form. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and thickened. This may take a few minutes.
3. Add Flavor Enhancers: Stir in the dry sherry (if using), thyme, rosemary, and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more seasoning, but you can’t take it away, so start with a little and adjust as needed.
4. Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened to your desired consistency. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Combining and Cooking the Orzo

Orzo adds a delightful texture to this pot pie, making it extra hearty and satisfying. It’s a great alternative to traditional potatoes or noodles. Make sure to cook the orzo al dente, as it will continue to cook in the sauce.

1. Cook the Orzo: While the sauce is simmering, cook the orzo according to package directions. I usually cook it in salted water until it’s al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
2. Drain the Orzo: Once the orzo is cooked, drain it well and set it aside.

Assembling the Pot Pie

Now for the fun part – putting everything together! This is where all your hard work pays off, as you create a beautiful and delicious pot pie that’s sure to impress.

1. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken and drained orzo to the skillet with the creamy sauce and vegetables. Stir gently to combine, making sure everything is evenly coated in the sauce.
2. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a 9-inch pie dish or a 9×13 inch baking dish.

Adding the Topping (Optional)

If you want to add a flaky, golden-brown crust to your pot pie, this step is for you! I love the added texture and flavor that a pie crust provides, but it’s totally optional. You can also skip the crust and enjoy the pot pie as is.

1. Prepare the Pie Crust: Gently unfold the thawed pie crust and place it over the filling in the baking dish. Trim any excess crust and crimp the edges to seal.
2. Create Vent Holes: Cut a few slits in the top of the crust to allow steam to escape while baking. This will prevent the crust from becoming soggy.
3. Apply Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and a tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Brush the egg wash evenly over the top of the pie crust. This will give it a beautiful golden-brown color.
4. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
5. Let it Rest: Remove the pot pie from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This will allow the filling to thicken slightly and prevent it from being too runny.

Serving

And there you have it – a delicious and comforting Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo! Serve it warm and enjoy every bite. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion. I hope you love it as much as I do!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a comforting symphony of flavors that will transport you back to childhood memories while offering a fresh, modern twist. I truly believe this dish is a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and utterly delicious weeknight meal. The creamy sauce, the tender chicken, the perfectly cooked orzo – it all comes together in a harmonious blend that’s simply irresistible.

But why is this recipe a must-try, you ask? Well, beyond the incredible taste, it’s the sheer versatility and ease of preparation that sets it apart. Unlike traditional pot pies that can be time-consuming and require pastry skills, this orzo version comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken, further streamlining the cooking process.

Looking for serving suggestions or variations? The possibilities are endless! For a heartier meal, consider adding diced potatoes or sweet potatoes to the vegetable mix. If you’re a fan of mushrooms, sautéing some sliced cremini or button mushrooms before adding them to the sauce will add a delightful earthy note. For a touch of freshness, stir in some chopped fresh parsley or thyme just before serving. And if you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes will add a subtle kick of heat.

This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo is also incredibly adaptable to dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, simply substitute the orzo with gluten-free orzo or another small gluten-free pasta shape. To make it dairy-free, use a plant-based milk alternative like almond milk or oat milk and a dairy-free butter substitute. You can even add some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

I’ve poured my heart into creating this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s a dish that’s guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters, and it’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Imagine serving this on a chilly evening, the aroma filling your home with warmth and comfort. Picture the smiles on your loved ones’ faces as they savor each creamy, flavorful bite.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get cooking! I promise you won’t regret it. This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo is a culinary adventure waiting to happen.

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe? Did you make any variations? What did you think? Share your photos and comments on social media using #CreamyChickenPotPieOrzo and tag me so I can see your creations. I’m always eager to learn from your experiences and see how you’ve made the recipe your own. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear from you! Let me know if you have any questions, I’m always happy to help. I hope this becomes a staple in your home, just as it has in mine. Enjoy!