Imagine a dish that combines the creamy, cheesy goodness of a classic pasta bake with the tender, succulent flavor of shredded chicken - all in one mouthwatering meal! This Chicken Orzo Pasta Bake is not just another dinner recipe; it's a culinary adventure that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy masterpiece. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend family gatherings, this Italian-inspired dish promises to become your new go-to comfort food that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups orzo pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo pasta, shredded chicken, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in half of the mozzarella and parmesan cheese, reserving the remaining cheese for topping.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown, and the edges are slightly crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set and makes serving easier.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Pair with a light salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, use rotisserie chicken or season and grill your own chicken breasts before shredding.
- Cook the orzo just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
- Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting and richer flavor.
- Don't skip the resting time after baking - it helps the cheese set and makes serving easier.
- For a crispy top, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes after baking if you want extra golden cheese.
- Customize the recipe by adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 85mg
