Introduction
Whip up a delicious One Pot Kritharaki Pasta with Chicken and Mushrooms! This cozy, hearty dish is made with tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and flavorful orzo pasta, all cooked together in one pot. It’s perfect for a comforting dinner with minimal cleanup—just the way we like it!
Why Make This Recipe?
This One Pot Kritharaki Pasta is an easy and satisfying meal that brings together Mediterranean flavors in a convenient, one-pot format. The combination of juicy chicken, earthy mushrooms, and orzo pasta creates a rich and creamy texture that will make this a family favorite. Plus, it saves time on both cooking and cleanup!
How to Make One Pot Kritharaki Pasta with Chicken and Mushrooms
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup kritharaki (orzo) pasta
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper and add them to the pot, cooking until golden brown on all sides, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 3–4 minutes until they start to soften. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and the onion is translucent, about 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in the kritharaki pasta and toast for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Return the chicken to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce is creamy and well combined.
- Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges for a burst of freshness.
How to Serve One Pot Kritharaki Pasta with Chicken and Mushrooms
Serve this pasta hot in bowls with extra Parmesan cheese on top, if desired. A side of crusty bread or a simple green salad makes for a complete, satisfying meal.
How to Store One Pot Kritharaki Pasta with Chicken and Mushrooms
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the pasta has absorbed too much sauce.
Tips to Make One Pot Kritharaki Pasta with Chicken and Mushrooms
- Don’t Skip the Toasting: Toasting the kritharaki pasta brings out a richer, nutty flavor.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley or even a sprinkle of basil can add extra brightness to the dish.
- Adjust the Creaminess: Add more or less cream depending on your desired level of creaminess, or substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add more mushrooms or other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach.
- Seafood Twist: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a seafood version of this dish.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different pasta instead of kritharaki (orzo)?
Yes, you can use small pasta shapes like ditalini or acini di pepe, but adjust the cooking time as needed.
2. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use a dairy-free cream alternative, such as coconut cream or a cashew cream, and skip the Parmesan.
3. What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth to keep the pasta from becoming too dry.
Enjoy a warm, flavorful bowl of this One Pot Kritharaki Pasta with Chicken and Mushrooms—a perfect, easy dinner for busy nights!