Cozy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo is a comforting, warm bowl filled with tender chicken, creamy sauce, and tiny orzo pasta that feels like a hug in every bite. It brings together all the favorite flavors of a classic chicken pot pie, like peas, carrots, and a rich, comforting sauce—but swaps out the crust for soft orzo that soaks up all the good stuff.
I love making this dish on chilly evenings when I want something filling but not too heavy. The orzo cooks quickly and makes the whole meal feel a little lighter than a traditional pot pie, which is great for those nights when you want comfort food but not a long cleanup. It’s also super easy to throw together, which means less stress and more time to relax.
My favorite way to enjoy Cozy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo is with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top and a crusty piece of bread on the side for dipping. It’s one of those meals that everyone around the table loves—easy, warm, and satisfying. Whenever I make it, I always look forward to leftovers because the flavors get even better the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using boneless, skinless thighs for juiciness, but breasts work fine too. For a quicker option, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great substitute.
Orzo Pasta: This tiny, rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well. If you can’t find orzo, small pasta like acini di pepe or even couscous would work.
Vegetables: Carrots and peas add color and sweetness. You can swap peas with green beans or frozen mixed veggies if you prefer.
Chicken Broth & Milk: Use full-flavored chicken broth for the best taste. For a dairy-free version, try coconut milk or any plant-based milk and a bit of olive oil instead of butter.
Herbs: Thyme and rosemary give that classic chicken pot pie flavor. Fresh herbs are great if you have them, but dried works perfectly here.
How Do I Make a Creamy Sauce Without Lumps?
Creating a smooth, thick sauce is key for that comforting pot pie feel. Here’s how to get it right:
- After sautéing your veggies, sprinkle the flour evenly over them and stir well to coat. Cooking the flour for 1-2 minutes helps remove any raw taste.
- Slowly add the chicken broth and milk while whisking constantly. This keeps the mixture smooth and prevents clumps.
- Simmer gently and stir often until the sauce thickens—this usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
- If your sauce seems too thick, add a little more broth or milk to loosen it up.
Taking time with these steps ensures a rich, creamy base that clings perfectly to the orzo and chicken.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or sauté pan – perfect for cooking chicken and veggies all in one place.
- Whisk – essential for stirring the sauce smoothly to avoid lumps.
- Wooden spoon or heat-safe spatula – great for stirring and folding ingredients without scratching the pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your broth, milk, and seasonings just right.
- Baking dish (optional) – if you want to finish the dish under the broiler for a golden top.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken with turkey for a tasty twist, especially great after holiday leftovers.
- Add shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese stirred into the sauce for extra creaminess and richness.
- Stir in sautéed mushrooms or spinach to boost veggies and add earthiness.
- Use sweet potatoes instead of carrots for a hint of natural sweetness.
Cozy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup carrots, diced small
- 1 cup frozen peas
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy chicken pot pie orzo dish takes about 30 minutes total to prepare and cook. It’s quick to sauté the chicken and vegetables, simmer the creamy sauce with orzo, and finish by warming everything together. If you opt to broil it for a golden top, add just a few more minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and cook until they are browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. When done, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside for later.
2. Sauté Vegetables:
In the same pan, melt the butter. Add finely chopped onion and diced carrots. Sauté these veggies for about 4-5 minutes until they start to soften, creating a great flavor base.
3. Add Garlic and Flour:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Then sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, stirring well to coat. Cook this mixture for 1-2 minutes to get rid of that raw flour taste and help thicken the sauce ahead.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Slowly pour in the chicken broth and milk, whisking continuously to keep the sauce smooth and lump-free. Let it simmer gently until the sauce thickens, which should take around 3-5 minutes.
5. Cook the Orzo and Season:
Stir in the orzo pasta along with dried thyme and rosemary. Add salt and pepper to your taste. Cover the pan and let the mixture simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has soaked up most of the liquid.
6. Combine Everything:
Fold the cooked chicken and frozen peas into the pan. Heat everything through for another 2-3 minutes. Give it a taste and add any extra seasoning if needed.
7. Optional Broil for a Crispy Top:
You can transfer the mixture to a baking dish if you like. Pop it under the broiler for 2-3 minutes to get a lightly browned, crispy top. Watch it closely to prevent burning!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a touch of color and fresh flavor. Serve your cozy chicken pot pie orzo warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way is to thaw in the fridge overnight or place the sealed chicken in cold water for faster thawing. Pat it dry before using to avoid added moisture.
Can I Make Cozy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dish up to step 6, then let it cool and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if it feels too thick.
What Can I Substitute for Orzo Pasta?
If you don’t have orzo, small pasta shapes like acini di pepe, couscous, or even small macaroni work well. Just adjust cooking times as needed since different pastas cook differently.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat slowly on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to warm evenly. Adding a little broth or milk while reheating helps keep it creamy.
