Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo

Cheesy, hearty, and packed with bold, savory flavors, this Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo is a simple yet stunning meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken, smoky bacon, melty Monterey Jack cheese, and creamy orzo all come together in one skillet for a comforting dish that’s bursting with flavor—and even better, minimal cleanup!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One Pan Wonder – Easy to cook and even easier to clean up.
Cheesy & Comforting – Loaded with melty Monterey Jack cheese.
Flavor-Packed – Smoky, savory, and satisfying.
Quick & Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes.
Family-Friendly – Loved by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 slices turkey bacon or beef bacon, chopped
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup barbecue sauce
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Optional Add-ins:

• ½ cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• ½ cup baby spinach stirred in at the end
• A pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat

Tools You’ll Need

• Large deep skillet or sauté pan with lid
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Grater for cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet, cook the chopped turkey or beef bacon over medium heat until crispy.
Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving a little grease in the pan.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add olive oil to the same skillet if needed.
Season the chicken pieces with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Sauté over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes.
Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo
Add the orzo to the skillet and toast for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to loosen any browned bits on the bottom of the pan.
Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Add Chicken, Bacon, and Barbecue Sauce
Return the cooked chicken and bacon to the skillet.
Stir in the barbecue sauce and cherry tomatoes.
Cook for 2–3 minutes to heat everything through.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Garnish
Sprinkle Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top.
Cover and cook for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and gooey.
Garnish with sliced green onions and parsley.

Step 7: Serve
Serve hot straight from the skillet with a side salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal.

Tips for Success
Toast the Orzo – Adds a nutty flavor that makes the dish even better.
Use Good Quality Cheese – Monterey Jack melts beautifully and adds a rich creaminess.
Don’t Overcook – Stir the orzo often and remove from heat once tender.
Customize – Add veggies or switch up the barbecue sauce flavor to change things up.
Garnish Generously – Green onions and parsley add color and freshness.

Serving Suggestions
With a Fresh Salad – A crisp green salad balances the rich, cheesy orzo.
With Steamed Vegetables – Like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans.
With Garlic Bread – To scoop up every cheesy bite.
As a Standalone Meal – It’s hearty enough on its own!

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing:
Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating:
Stovetop: Reheat gently over medium heat with a splash of broth or water.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between, until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
   Yes! Save time by stirring in shredded rotisserie chicken at the end.
2. Can I make it vegetarian?
   Skip the chicken and bacon and use veggie broth; add sautéed mushrooms for extra umami.
3. What if I don’t have Monterey Jack?
   Mozzarella or cheddar work well as substitutes.
4. Can I make it spicier?
   Add some diced jalapeños or a few red pepper flakes.
5. Can I use a different pasta?
   Orzo works best, but you could substitute small pasta like ditalini or couscous with slight adjustments to cooking time.

Final Thoughts
This Monterey Chicken One Pan Orzo is cheesy, smoky, and full of cozy flavors—everything you want in a hearty, satisfying meal. With juicy chicken, melty cheese, and tender orzo all cooked in one pan, it’s the perfect easy dinner for busy nights when you still want something homemade and delicious.

Cook up a skillet tonight and enjoy cheesy, barbecue-flavored comfort in every bite! Don’t forget to share your one-pan creations online!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American / Comfort Food

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – serves 4):
Calories: 480 | Protein: 32g | Carbohydrates: 32g | Fat: 24g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 6g | Sodium: 580mg

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