Monterey Chicken Orzo is a tasty and satisfying dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy Monterey Jack cheese, and little orzo pasta pearls that soak up all the flavors. It’s simple but full of comforting textures and mild, cheesy goodness that makes it a great family meal any night of the week.
I love making this recipe because it’s easy to put together, yet it feels special enough to serve when friends come over. The chicken stays juicy, and the orzo cooks just right, giving a nice contrast to the melted cheese and a touch of garlic or herbs. I often find myself sneaking a little taste straight from the pan as it cooks—it just smells so good!
My favorite way to enjoy Monterey Chicken Orzo is with a side of steamed green veggies or a fresh salad to balance out the richness. It feels like a full meal without a lot of fuss, perfect for when I want something hearty but not too heavy. Plus, leftovers heat up nicely, so it’s great for lunch the next day too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts keeps the dish lean and easy to cook evenly. If you prefer, thighs work well too and add a bit more flavor and juiciness.
Orzo pasta: Orzo gives a nice bite and soaks up the sauce well. If you can’t find it, small pasta like acini di pepe or even couscous can be good substitutes.
Monterey Jack cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and gives creamy richness. You can swap it for mozzarella or mild cheddar if needed, though Monterey Jack has a lovely mild flavor that suits this dish.
Spinach and cherry tomatoes: These add freshness and color. Baby kale or Swiss chard can replace spinach. For tomatoes, grape tomatoes also work well.
How Do You Make the Chicken Tender and Juicy?
Cooking chicken just right can be tricky. Here’s what works for me:
- Pat the chicken dry and season well to help with browning.
- Use medium-high heat to get a good sear without burning.
- Cook without moving it too much—about 5-6 minutes per side—until golden and cooked through.
- After cooking, let it rest a few minutes before cutting. This keeps juices inside.
Cooking chicken this way gives a nice crust while keeping it juicy inside, which pairs perfectly with the creamy orzo.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or sauté pan – I prefer this because it’s perfect for cooking the chicken and making the whole dish in one pan, saving cleanup time.
- Meat thermometer – helps ensure chicken is cooked perfectly without overdoing it, keeping it juicy.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – makes stirring the orzo and ingredients easy without scratching your pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for precise portions of broth, cheese, and veggies, which keeps the dish well-balanced.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping the onion, garlic, tomatoes, and spinach easily and safely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked shrimp or turkey for different protein options that add variety and keep things interesting.
- Mix in diced bell peppers or mushrooms along with the spinach for extra flavor and texture.
- Replace Monterey Jack with pepper jack or mozzarella if you like a different level of spice or meltability.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or paprika to give a little heat or smoky flavor to the dish.
Monterey Chicken Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, whole or halved
- 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This meal takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. That includes prepping the ingredients, cooking the chicken, and simmering the orzo until it’s tender and creamy. It’s a quick and satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Cook the Chicken:
First, sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of your chicken breasts. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook it for 5 to 6 minutes on each side until it’s golden and cooked through. Then, take the chicken out and set it aside for now.
2. Cook the Aromatics and Orzo:
In the same skillet, toss in the diced onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can smell that wonderful aroma. Now add the orzo pasta and stir it around so it gets coated with the flavors in the pan.
3. Simmer with Broth and Veggies:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it up to a simmer. Let the orzo cook, stirring occasionally, until it soaks up most of the liquid and becomes tender – about 10 to 12 minutes. Then stir in the cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes get nice and soft.
4. Add Cheese and Finish the Dish:
Turn the heat to low. Mix in the Monterey Jack and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until they melt and make the orzo creamy. Nestle the cooked chicken breasts back into the pan with the orzo to warm them up for a couple more minutes.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a bright touch. Serve your delicious Monterey Chicken Orzo hot and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat it dry to remove excess moisture so it browns nicely in the skillet.
Can I Substitute Orzo with Another Pasta?
Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like acini di pepe, Israeli couscous, or even small shells work well as a substitute for orzo. Just watch the cooking time as it may vary slightly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to evenly warm the cheesy orzo.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Skip the chicken and add extra veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. You can also stir in beans for added protein. Just cook the orzo and veggies as usual and stir in the cheese at the end.
