One Pot Chicken Orzo

There’s something undeniably magical about a meal that comes together in a single pot. No sink full of dishes, no fussy techniques, and definitely no stress. This One Pot Chicken Orzo is exactly that kind of recipe. It’s creamy, nourishing, packed with protein, and overflowing with cozy flavors. Best of all, it’s made with wholesome, everyday ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. If you’ve been on the hunt for a hearty yet healthy weeknight meal, this one checks every box.

I still remember the first time I made this recipe. It was a chilly evening, and I needed dinner to be on the table fast. I had chicken breasts in the fridge, some orzo pasta in the pantry, and a few lonely carrots in the crisper drawer. Rather than cooking everything separately, I decided to toss it all into one pot. A little garlic, a splash of broth, a handful of herbs, and about thirty minutes later, I was spooning the most velvety, comforting dish into bowls for the whole family. They devoured it without saying a word—which, if you have kids, you know is the ultimate compliment.

What makes this dish truly special is its versatility. It’s one of those recipes you can throw together when you’re short on time and still feel good about serving. The orzo becomes creamy as it cooks, soaking up the savory broth and milk. The chicken stays juicy and tender, while the carrots and onions add just enough natural sweetness and texture to round things out. It’s comforting without being heavy, and rich without being too indulgent.

This recipe has quickly become a staple in our rotation, especially on busy weeknights when I need something easy but still crave something homemade. And the fact that it only uses one pot? That’s the icing on the cake. Less cleanup, more time to relax after dinner.

So whether you’re meal prepping for the week, cooking for a crowd, or just looking to shake up your usual dinner routine, this One Pot Chicken Orzo is here to save the day. Let’s dive into why this recipe is such a keeper.

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Chicken Orzo

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this one pot wonder, and the more you make it, the more you’ll appreciate its flexibility, ease, and flavor. First and foremost, this recipe is incredibly approachable. It uses basic ingredients like chicken, orzo, vegetables, and pantry spices. You don’t need any fancy equipment or culinary training. In fact, if you can chop a carrot and stir a pot, you’re already halfway there.

Next, let’s talk about the flavor. Despite its simplicity, this dish delivers serious depth. The garlic and onions add a savory base, the broth infuses the orzo with richness, and the milk brings everything together with a silky finish. You can add parmesan if you like for a salty, cheesy note, or skip it for a lighter, dairy-free version. Either way, the result is creamy, cozy, and full of personality.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Don’t have chicken breasts? Use thighs. Want to make it vegetarian? Swap the chicken for chickpeas or white beans and use vegetable broth instead. You can even bulk it up with extra veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or peas. It’s a great way to use up whatever’s hanging out in your fridge.

This dish also reheats beautifully, which means it’s perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy it for lunch throughout the week. It thickens slightly as it sits, but a splash of broth or water brings it right back to life. And because it’s cooked in one pot, cleanup is an absolute breeze—no more juggling multiple pans or running the dishwasher twice.

Families love this meal too, especially if you’re feeding picky eaters. The familiar flavors and creamy texture make it a hit with kids, and the fact that it’s all-in-one means fewer side dishes to think about. Plus, it’s easy to sneak in extra vegetables for a nutrition boost.

In short, this recipe is everything a home cook dreams of: comforting, nutritious, affordable, and low-effort. Once you’ve made it once, it’s guaranteed to earn a permanent spot in your recipe binder.

Health Benefits One Pot Chicken Orzo

While this One Pot Chicken Orzo is undeniably delicious, it’s also surprisingly nutritious. Made with lean protein, whole vegetables, and a moderate amount of healthy fats, it strikes that perfect balance between comfort food and wholesome eating. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this dish a smart choice for your dinner table.

First up is the protein. Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and maintaining steady energy levels. Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts keeps the fat content low, while still delivering a hearty and satisfying meal. If you opt for thighs, you’ll get a bit more fat, but also extra flavor and juiciness.

The orzo, although it’s a type of pasta, cooks more like rice and absorbs all the flavorful broth and seasonings. While it’s not a whole grain, orzo provides carbohydrates that your body needs for energy—especially when paired with protein and fiber-rich vegetables. For an even healthier twist, you can look for whole wheat orzo, which adds extra fiber and nutrients.

Vegetables play a quiet but powerful role in this dish. Carrots add natural sweetness and a dose of beta carotene, while onions and garlic bring flavor along with anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. You can also throw in leafy greens like spinach or kale for extra vitamins A, C, and K. Peas are another great add-in, offering fiber and plant-based protein.

Now let’s talk about the creamy finish. Instead of using heavy cream, this recipe calls for milk, which makes the sauce luscious without being too rich. You can use dairy milk or choose a dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk. Either way, you get that smooth texture without a heavy calorie load. A little parmesan cheese is optional, but it adds calcium and flavor if you decide to include it.

Overall, this dish delivers a well-rounded nutrient profile. You’ve got protein, healthy fats, complex carbs, and a variety of vitamins and minerals. It’s filling without being too heavy, and satisfying enough to keep you away from late-night snacking. Plus, because it’s made with real, whole ingredients, you know exactly what you’re putting into your body.

For those with dietary preferences, this dish is easy to customize. It can be made gluten-free with gluten-free orzo, dairy-free with plant-based milk, or vegetarian with simple substitutions. It’s a recipe that works with you—not against your goals.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information One Pot Chicken Orzo

If time is tight and you’re trying to get a home-cooked meal on the table fast, this One Pot Chicken Orzo is going to be your new best friend. Not only does it cook quickly, but it’s also a breeze to clean up afterward. Let’s break down exactly how long it takes, how many people it serves, and what kind of nutritional value you can expect in each serving.

In terms of prep time, you’ll need just about 10 to 15 minutes to get everything ready. This includes dicing the onion, mincing the garlic, slicing the carrots, and cubing the chicken. After that, the cooking process takes roughly 20 to 25 minutes, depending on your stovetop and how thick your chicken pieces are. All in all, from start to finish, you can have this meal on the table in 35 to 40 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights when takeout is tempting but you still want something homemade.

This recipe yields four hearty servings, but it can easily stretch to five or six if you’re serving it with a side salad or some roasted vegetables. The portion size is generous, with plenty of protein and fiber to keep you full and satisfied.

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories: 400
Protein: 38 grams
Fat: 12 grams
Carbohydrates: 35 grams
Fiber: 3 grams
Sugar: 4 grams
Sodium: 720 milligrams (depending on your broth and added salt)

Keep in mind these numbers can vary slightly based on the type of orzo, milk, and broth you use. For a lower sodium version, opt for low-sodium broth and season to taste. If you’re tracking your macros or looking for a specific nutritional target, this recipe is easy to adjust.

You can also boost the fiber and vitamin content by adding extra vegetables. Spinach, peas, mushrooms, or zucchini are all great options that cook quickly and blend right in.

This meal offers everything you need in a balanced dinner: protein to build and repair, carbs to fuel your energy, and fat to keep you full and satisfied. And because it’s all cooked in one pot, you’re getting maximum flavor without extra cleanup. It’s a weeknight win in every possible way.

Ingredients List One Pot Chicken Orzo

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With a handful of kitchen staples and a few fresh ingredients, you can create a meal that tastes like you’ve been cooking for hours. Below is a breakdown of each ingredient and why it’s essential to the dish, along with substitution suggestions in case you need to make a swap.

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast – 1 to 1½ pounds
Lean and high in protein, chicken breast is the star of this dish. It cooks quickly and stays juicy when simmered in broth. If you prefer more flavor or a bit of extra fat, boneless chicken thighs are a great alternative. For a vegetarian version, swap in chickpeas or white beans.

Orzo Pasta – 1 cup (uncooked)
Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta that absorbs liquid beautifully and creates a creamy texture as it cooks. You’ll find it in the pasta aisle of most grocery stores. If you’re gluten-free, you can substitute with a gluten-free orzo or even short-grain brown rice, though cook times may vary.

Carrots – 2 medium, diced
Carrots add color, sweetness, and a nutritional boost. They also soften nicely as the dish simmers, adding to the comforting texture. You can also use diced zucchini or sweet potato if you’re out of carrots.

Onion – 1 small, diced
Onions create the savory base for the dish and enhance the overall flavor. Yellow or white onions both work well here. If you prefer a milder taste, use a shallot instead.

Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Garlic adds depth and aroma. Fresh is best, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch—start with ½ teaspoon and adjust to taste.

Chicken Broth – 3 cups
Broth is essential for cooking the orzo and infusing the dish with flavor. Choose low-sodium broth so you can control the salt level. If you’re vegetarian, go with vegetable broth.

Milk – ½ cup
Milk brings the creaminess without the need for heavy cream. You can use dairy milk or a dairy-free option like almond, oat, or cashew milk. Just avoid sweetened versions.

Parmesan Cheese – ¼ cup (optional)
Parmesan adds a salty, umami kick and enhances the creaminess of the finished dish. You can omit it or use a vegan cheese alternative if needed.

Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon
Used to sauté the vegetables and brown the chicken. You can substitute with avocado oil or any neutral oil you prefer.

Dried Herbs – 1 teaspoon each of oregano and basil
These herbs complement the chicken and vegetables and add classic Italian-style flavor. You can substitute with Italian seasoning or fresh herbs if you have them on hand.

Salt and Pepper – to taste
Essential for seasoning. Start with a light sprinkle and adjust as the dish comes together.

This straightforward list of ingredients is the foundation for a deeply satisfying and nourishing meal. With everything prepped and ready, you’re just a few steps away from enjoying your new favorite one-pot dinner.

🔪 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions One Pot Chicken Orzo  

This section breaks everything down so even if it’s your first time cooking orzo, you’ll feel like a pro. Grab a big skillet or deep sauté pan, and let’s cook this up step by step.

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👩‍🍳 Step 1: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into 1-inch cubes)
  You can also use chicken thighs for extra juiciness!

• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
  This tiny rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and absorbs flavor beautifully.

• 1 small yellow onion, diced
  For that essential savory base.

• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
  Because everything is better with garlic.

• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
  Adds a touch of sweetness and a boost of veggies.

• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  You’ll cook the orzo directly in this, so use a good-quality broth for flavor.

• ½ cup milk or dairy-free alternative
  Makes it creamy—almond or oat milk works great here.

• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  Totally optional, but adds richness if you’re not avoiding dairy.

• Salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil
  Simple seasonings that pack a punch.

Optional Add-ins:

• A handful of baby spinach or frozen peas

• A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness

• A drizzle of olive oil before serving

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🧄 Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat.

• Add the diced onion and carrots. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.

• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute, just until fragrant. (Don’t let the garlic brown or it’ll taste bitter.)

This step creates the base flavor for the whole dish—savory, sweet, and just a little bit toasty.

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🍗 Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Now add your cubed chicken to the pan.

• Sprinkle with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil to season right away.

• Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned on the outside. It doesn’t need to be fully cooked through just yet—that’ll happen when we simmer everything together.

Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan! If needed, cook the chicken in two batches for the best sear.

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🍚 Step 4: Add the Orzo and Broth

Once your chicken is lightly browned and your veggies are looking soft and glossy:

• Stir in 1 cup of orzo, coating it in the oil and seasonings for 30–60 seconds.

• Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle boil.

Give it a good stir, then:

• Lower the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Stir occasionally to prevent sticking—especially toward the end.

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🥛 Step 5: Stir in Milk and Cheese

Once the orzo is tender and everything smells amazing, it’s time to make it creamy:

• Pour in your ½ cup of milk (or dairy-free option) and stir gently.

• If using cheese, stir in ⅓ cup Parmesan until it melts into the sauce.

This is where the magic happens! The sauce should thicken slightly and coat the orzo in creamy, cozy goodness.

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🌿 Step 6: Taste and Adjust

Give it a taste—then tweak as needed.

• Need a little more flavor? Add a pinch of salt or a squeeze of lemon juice.

• Want more creaminess? Splash in a bit more milk.

• Craving color? Fold in some baby spinach or peas and let them wilt for a minute.

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🕰️ Step 7: Let It Sit (Trust Me)

After cooking, turn off the heat and let the dish rest for 3–5 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken and the flavors to settle.

Then grab your spoon (or fork—no judgment) and dive in!

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🍽️ How to Serve One Pot Chicken Orzo 

This dish is comfort food perfection on its own, but it also plays well with others. Here are my favorite ways to serve it:

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🥣 As a Main Course

Honestly, it’s filling enough on its own. Scoop it into a shallow bowl and top with:

• A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil

• A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil

• Extra Parmesan, if that’s your vibe

Serve it family-style or in individual bowls—either way, it’s a total crowd-pleaser.

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🥗 Lighten It Up

Balance the creaminess with something fresh on the side:

• A crisp arugula or romaine salad with lemon vinaigrette

• Sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onion with a dash of olive oil and vinegar

• Lightly steamed green beans or broccoli

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🍞 Carb-Lover’s Dream

If you love a double-carb situation (same!), serve it with:

• Toasted garlic bread or naan

• A slice of rustic sourdough for mopping up that creamy orzo

• Pita chips for dipping

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🍗 Protein Boost (if you’re extra hungry)

Add a side of:

• Roasted chickpeas

• Boiled eggs

• A few slices of grilled turkey or halal sausage

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🥂 Pairing Suggestions 

While this chicken orzo is simple, its flavors are rich and herby, which means it pairs beautifully with lots of sides and drinks. Here’s how to round out the meal.

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🧂 Side Dishes

Balance the warm, creamy orzo with something cool, crunchy, or acidic:

• Cucumber salad with dill and lemon

• Steamed or grilled asparagus with olive oil and garlic

• A tray of oven-roasted veggies (like zucchini, peppers, and mushrooms)

• Hummus and pita on the side

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🍹 Beverage Ideas

For drinks, think clean and refreshing to cut through the creaminess:

• Iced mint tea (sweetened or unsweetened)

• Sparkling water with lemon slices or a splash of juice

• Cucumber lemonade

• If you enjoy non-alcoholic options: try a fizzy kombucha or ginger beer

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🍽️ For Kids & Family

Make it even more fun for little ones or picky eaters:

• Serve it with shredded cheese on top

• Mix in sweet corn or peas

• Offer soft rolls or flatbread for scooping

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🧊 Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions 

The leftovers from this dish? Chef’s kiss. They hold up beautifully and make lunch or dinner the next day an absolute breeze.

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📦 Storing in the Fridge

• Let the orzo cool to room temperature before storing.

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• When ready to eat, just scoop out a portion and warm it gently (more on that below).

Tip: Add a splash of broth or milk before reheating to loosen it back up!

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❄️ Freezing Instructions

While you can freeze this dish, orzo can get a little mushy after thawing, so keep that in mind.

Here’s how to freeze it if you want to:

1. Let it cool completely.

2. Portion into airtight containers or freezer bags.

3. Freeze for up to 2 months.

4. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Pro Tip: Freeze in individual portions for easy grab-and-go lunches.

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🔥 Reheating Tips

You can reheat this chicken orzo in a few different ways:

Microwave (Best for Individual Portions):

• Place in a microwave-safe bowl.

• Add a splash of broth or milk.

• Cover and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Stovetop (Best for Larger Portions):

• Add orzo to a skillet with a bit of broth or milk.

• Warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until hot.

Avoid high heat—it can dry out the chicken and make the orzo gummy.

🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making One Pot Chicken Orzo 

For such a simple, comforting dish, it’s surprisingly easy to run into a few hiccups when making chicken orzo. But don’t worry—we’ve all been there, and every little mistake is just a lesson in disguise! Here’s what to watch out for so your One Pot Chicken Orzo turns out creamy, cozy, and full of flavor every time.

1. Overcooking the orzo

Orzo cooks fast, and if it goes even a minute too long, it can turn from tender to mushy in no time. Since this is a one-pot dish, the orzo continues to cook slightly even after you’ve removed it from heat, so aim to turn off the stove just as the orzo is al dente—firm to the bite but not crunchy.

2. Adding the milk too early

Milk (or any dairy alternative) should always go in after the orzo is cooked and most of the liquid has absorbed. If you add it too early, it can curdle or lose that lovely creamy texture you’re after. Let the orzo simmer first in broth, then add your milk to finish.

3. Not seasoning in layers

The key to a flavorful one-pot dish is seasoning at every stage. Add a pinch of salt while sautéing the veggies, another when the chicken goes in, and adjust to taste after the dish is done. Don’t rely solely on the end-of-cook seasoning—it won’t be the same!

4. Using too much broth

This is a delicate balance. Too much broth and your orzo will be soupy; too little and it may stick to the pan before fully cooking. Start with the recommended amount, and if needed, add just a splash more as it simmers. Stir often to keep it from sticking.

5. Skipping the stir

Since orzo is a small pasta, it loves to settle at the bottom of the pan and stick. Give your dish a good stir every few minutes to keep everything moving and prevent burnt bits at the bottom.

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💡 Pro Tips for the Best One Pot Chicken Orzo 

This dish is already a total weeknight hero—hearty, comforting, and on the table in about 30 minutes. But if you want to level it up even more, these are the little details that take it from good to genuinely unforgettable.

1. Use chicken thighs for extra tenderness

Chicken breasts are a lean and healthy option, but thighs bring a deeper flavor and stay super juicy, especially in a simmered one-pot meal like this. You can even mix both for the best of both worlds!

2. Finely dice your veggies

This might seem small, but when your carrots, onions, and garlic are cut small and uniform, they cook faster and blend seamlessly into the creamy base. No one wants to bite into a giant hunk of undercooked carrot!

3. Let it rest before serving

After you’ve turned off the heat, give the dish 5 minutes to rest with the lid on. The orzo will soak up any last bits of liquid and finish cooking perfectly without going mushy. It also thickens into that velvety texture we all love.

4. Brighten it up at the end

Just before serving, squeeze in a touch of lemon juice or toss in a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or basil. It brings a hit of freshness that balances the creamy base beautifully.

5. Add in bonus veggies

This is a great fridge-cleanout recipe. Stir in baby spinach, frozen peas, or chopped zucchini toward the end of cooking. They’ll steam quickly and bulk up the nutrition.

6. Shred cheese from a block

If you’re using Parmesan or another cheese, try shredding it yourself instead of using pre-grated. Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that don’t melt as smoothly, and that freshly grated flavor is unbeatable.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Even though this One Pot Chicken Orzo recipe is wonderfully simple, there are always a few questions that pop up—especially if you’re making it for the first time or customizing it for dietary needs. Here are some of the most common FAQs we get, with clear and helpful answers.

Q: Can I use gluten-free orzo?

Yes! There are several gluten-free orzo options out there made with rice or corn flour. Just be sure to adjust your cooking time—gluten-free pasta tends to cook a bit faster and can break down if overcooked, so keep a close eye on it.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely. Swap the milk with a creamy unsweetened plant-based milk (like oat or almond), and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. The flavor and texture will still be creamy and satisfying.

Q: What if I don’t have orzo?

No problem. You can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells. Pearl couscous (also called Israeli couscous) can work too, but it may require a bit of a different cooking time—just follow the package directions as a guide.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! This dish keeps really well. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It will thicken a bit in the fridge, so when reheating, just add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up.

Q: Is it freezer-friendly?

Technically yes, but the texture of pasta can get a little soft once frozen and reheated. If you do freeze it, let it cool completely first, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop with extra liquid.

Q: Can I add more protein?

Totally. Stir in cooked chickpeas, white beans, or even turkey sausage to bulk things up. Just make sure everything is cooked before adding it, as the main simmering time is focused on the orzo.

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🥰 Conclusion & Call to Action 

There’s something so satisfying about a dish that does everything you need in just one pot. It’s cozy, it’s creamy, it’s packed with protein and veggies—and best of all, it comes together in under 30 minutes with pantry staples. This One Pot Chicken Orzo has become a true weeknight MVP in our house, and once you try it, I have a feeling it’ll become a regular in yours too.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping lunches, or just want something warm and comforting after a long day, this recipe really delivers. It’s adaptable, forgiving, and endlessly customizable. Add more veggies, change up the protein, use dairy-free swaps—it still turns out amazing every single time.

And if you’re someone who’s intimidated by cooking or doesn’t love doing dishes (same!), this is your recipe. No fancy techniques, no piles of dirty pots, just real food and real flavor in one pan. Simple cooking at its best.

I’d absolutely love to hear how this dish works out for you. Did you put your own spin on it? Maybe added spinach or swapped in turkey? Tag me on Instagram or drop a comment below with your version—I love seeing what you come up with!

And if you loved this recipe and want more easy one-pot dinners in your life, make sure to sign up for our weekly newsletter or check out the “One Pot Meals” section on the blog. Your future self (and your dish rack) will thank you. 🍲

Now go grab that pan and let’s make dinner delicious—and stress-free—tonight!

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