Name: Monterey Chicken One-Pan Orzo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 can cream of chicken with herbs (10.5 oz); 16 oz sour cream; 2.5 cups chicken stock (Use low-sodium if preferred.); 5 cloves garlic (minced) (You can use pre-minced garlic for convenience.); 1 tsp all-purpose seasoning; ½ tsp salt; 1 tsp freshly cracked pepper; 3 cups fresh spinach leaves (torn) (You can also use 1 (10 oz) box frozen chopped spinach, thawed.); 16 oz dry orzo (Orzo will expand during cooking.); 3 cups Monterey Jack cheese (freshly grated) (Feel free to substitute with sharp cheddar or pepper jack.); 2 cups rotisserie chicken (shredded) (You can use cooked chicken breast instead of rotisserie.); 1 can French’s crispy fried onions (6 oz) (Add more for extra crunch if desired.)

Monterey Chicken One-Pan Orzo is a comforting casserole that brings together tender rotisserie chicken, creamy sauces, and cheesy orzo in a delightful one-pan dish. I first discovered this recipe during a busy week when I needed something quick yet satisfying for dinner. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible, making it a hit for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even a cozy Sunday brunch.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Why should you consider whipping up Monterey Chicken One-Pan Orzo? For starters, it’s a complete meal that whips up in one pan, saving you time on cleanup. With a blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory elements, kids and adults alike will devour it. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, especially if you start with a rotisserie chicken, turning leftovers into a delicious meal the next day. Best of all, you can gather your ingredients in advance, making it perfect for unexpected guests or busy weeknights.

"This dish was a winner at our family dinner! Quick, filling, and absolutely delicious!" – A satisfied reader

The Cooking Process Explained

Making Monterey Chicken One-Pan Orzo is as easy as it sounds! You’ll find that assembling this dish is a breeze, with only a few basic steps to follow. Start by mixing the creamy base, then add in your chicken, orzo, and spinach before finishing up with a cheesy topping. In no time, you’ll have a mouthwatering dish baking in the oven, filling your home with enticing aromas.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting dish:

1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken with herbs
16 oz container sour cream
2.5 cups chicken stock
5 garlic cloves (minced)
1 teaspoon all-purpose seasoning
½ tsp salt
1 tsp freshly cracked pepper
3 cups fresh spinach leaves (torn) or 1 (10 oz) box frozen chopped spinach, thawed
16 oz dry orzo
3 cups Monterey Jack cheese (freshly grated)
2 cups rotisserie chicken (shredded)
1 (6 oz) can French’s crispy fried onions

For a bit of extra flavor, you can also experiment with spices or use a different type of cheese!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 casserole dish.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken, sour cream, and chicken stock, stirring until smooth.
Add in the minced garlic, all-purpose seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Gently fold in the fresh spinach, shredded rotisserie chicken, half of the grated cheese, and dry orzo until everything is coated.
Transfer the mixture into the casserole dish and top with the remaining cheese and crispy fried onions.
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. After that, uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

When it comes to serving Monterey Chicken One-Pan Orzo, keep things simple. Serve it straight from the oven with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal. If you want to impress your guests, consider garnishing it with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika to elevate the dish’s presentation.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To keep your leftovers fresh, store Monterey Chicken One-Pan Orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the baking dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through. If you want to extend its life even further, this dish can be frozen for up to two months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating, and it’ll be as delicious as the day you made it!

Helpful Cooking Tips

Double-check that your container is large enough as the orzo will expand during cooking.
If you prefer a little crunch, don’t hesitate to add extra crispy onions on top before serving.
For a simplified prep, use pre-minced garlic and store-bought rotisserie chicken.

Creative Twists

Feel free to get creative with Monterey Chicken One-Pan Orzo! Consider swapping out the Monterey Jack cheese for sharp cheddar or pepper jack for a kick. You can also add roasted red peppers for a pop of color and flavor, or use quinoa instead of orzo for a gluten-free alternative.

Common Questions

How long does it take to prepare this dish?
From prep to baking, expect about 10-15 minutes of hands-on time and around 40-45 minutes to bake.

Can I use chicken breast instead of rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Just cook and shred the chicken breast beforehand, and it will work perfectly in this dish.

Is there a vegetarian option?
Yes! You can omit the chicken and add more vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a delightful vegetarian version.

Monterey Chicken One-Pan Orzo is not just a meal; it’s an experience that will delight your palate and bring joy to your kitchen. You won’t be disappointed with this delicious comfort food!