Name: One Pan Chicken Caprese Baked Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 ½ to 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 6 medium thighs); 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 shallot, diced; 3 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth; ⅓ cup basil pesto; 1 pound dry orzo; ½ lemon, juiced; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 pint cherry tomatoes (about 1 ½ cups); 6 ounces whole-milk mozzarella, cut into 8 thin slices or 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella; 2 to 3 tablespoons balsamic glaze; ¼ cup fresh torn basil leaves

Print Recipe· 3.9 from 14 reviews

The One Pan Chicken Caprese Baked Orzo Recipe is an absolute game-changer when it comes to cozy, flavorful dinners that don’t demand a mountain of cleanup afterward. Picture juicy, golden-browned chicken thighs nestled in creamy, pesto-infused orzo with bursts of sweet cherry tomatoes and melty mozzarella on top, all brought together by a zingy splash of lemon and a glossy drizzle of balsamic glaze. This dish captures the essence of classic Caprese flavors with an irresistible Italian twist, making it perfect for both weeknight meals and impressing guests without any fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white pan filled with nine pieces of cooked chicken thighs, arranged close but not overlapping. Each piece has a light golden brown color with visible pepper seasoning. The chicken has a slightly glossy, cooked texture with some browned edges and light oil stains around. The pan has a black rim and two white handles, sitting on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe shines because of its simple yet vibrant ingredients, each adding a unique layer of flavor, texture, or freshness. From tender chicken thighs to aromatic garlic and basil pesto, every component plays an essential role in creating that signature One Pan Chicken Caprese Baked Orzo magic.

Chicken thighs: Boneless and skinless for tender, juicy bites and easy, even cooking.
Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors.
Extra-virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the chicken perfectly.
Garlic and shallot: These aromatics infuse the orzo with subtle, savory depth.
Low-sodium chicken broth: The cooking liquid that ensures creamy, tender orzo without overpowering.
Basil pesto: Packs a fresh, herbaceous punch that defines the Caprese vibe.
Dry orzo: The star grain that soaks up all the flavors beautifully.
Lemon juice: Adds a bright, zesty contrast to the richness.
Cherry tomatoes: Juicy bursts of sweetness and vibrant color throughout the dish.
Whole-milk mozzarella: Melts into cheesy goodness to bring everything together on top.
Balsamic glaze: A sweet tangy finish that gives the dish its signature look and flavor pop.
Fresh basil leaves: The fresh herbal finishing touch that ties all the elements together.

How to Make One Pan Chicken Caprese Baked Orzo Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel and seasoning generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This simple step ensures that your chicken will brown beautifully, locking in flavor and moisture for the ultimate juicy bite later on.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large, oven-safe Dutch oven or braiser over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook until golden brown on each side, about 3 to 5 minutes per side. Don’t worry if they aren’t fully cooked yet—that will happen in the oven. Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate to rest, letting any flavorful juices gather.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Begin the Orzo

Lower the heat to medium and add another tablespoon of olive oil to the same pan, stirring in the minced garlic and diced shallot. Sauté until fragrant, about one minute, which creates the flavor base for the orzo. Then pour in the chicken broth and stir in the basil pesto while scraping up any tasty browned bits from the bottom of the pan—that’s pure flavor gold.

Step 4: Combine Orzo and Ingredients

Stir in the dry orzo along with lemon juice and 1 teaspoon kosher salt, combining everything thoroughly. Arrange the browned chicken back on top of the orzo mixture, including any collected juices from the plate, nestling the chicken gently into the liquid. Scatter the cherry tomatoes evenly around the chicken to add bursts of color and natural sweetness. Bring the whole mixture to a gentle boil to prepare for baking.

Step 5: Bake Until Tender and Finish with Mozzarella

Place the pan uncovered in the preheated 375°F oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the orzo is tender and the chicken finishes cooking. Remove the pan from the oven and artfully place slices of mozzarella over each chicken thigh. Switch your oven to the broiler setting on high and broil for 2 to 3 minutes, just until the cheese melts and browns ever so slightly, creating that irresistible gooey topping.

Step 6: Add Balsamic Glaze and Fresh Basil

Drizzle 2 to 3 tablespoons of balsamic glaze over the chicken and orzo for a beautiful, tangy-sweet finishing touch. Sprinkle fresh torn or julienned basil leaves on top to brighten the dish with their vibrant green color and fragrant aroma. Now your One Pan Chicken Caprese Baked Orzo Recipe is ready to serve!

How to Serve One Pan Chicken Caprese Baked Orzo Recipe

A white pot filled with a cooked dish showing multiple light brown chicken pieces seasoned with black pepper sitting in a greenish sauce. Bright red whole cherry tomatoes are scattered evenly on top, along with small clusters of pale yellow orzo pasta partially submerged in the liquid. The green sauce has a textured, oily look and surrounds the ingredients, filling the pot. The pot handles are visible on each side, placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh basil and balsamic glaze aren’t just for flavor—they elevate the presentation and introduce refreshing herbal and tangy notes that perfectly complement the rich mozzarella and pesto orzo.

Side Dishes

This dish stands beautifully on its own, but if you want to add a side, consider a crisp green salad with a light lemon vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables to add some textural balance and extra nutrients. A crusty artisan bread is excellent for soaking up any leftover juices on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning dinner party centerpiece, serve the One Pan Chicken Caprese Baked Orzo Recipe straight from the Dutch oven at the table and let guests help themselves. You can also plate it individually with an extra drizzle of balsamic glaze and a small basil sprig for a restaurant-quality touch at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld in the fridge, making for some delicious next-day meals.

Freezing

This dish freezes fairly well without the mozzarella on top. Freeze the cooked orzo and chicken mixture in a sealed container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and adding fresh mozzarella if desired.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a covered skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the orzo moist. Add fresh mozzarella on top before giving it a brief broil or microwave melt to replicate that gooey, cheesy finish.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but thighs tend to stay juicier and develop more flavor during cooking. If using breasts, monitor closely to prevent drying out.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the regular orzo with gluten-free orzo or use white rice instead. Just note that rice will require adjustments to cooking time and liquid amounts.

Can this recipe be made dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the mozzarella or swap it with your favorite dairy-free cheese alternative. The dish will still have plenty of flavor from the pesto, tomatoes, and balsamic glaze.

Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Definitely! Adding baby spinach in with the garlic and shallot during sautéing is a wonderful way to boost nutrients and color without altering cooking times significantly.

What’s the best way to reheat without drying out the chicken?

Reheat on the stovetop with a little added broth over low heat or covered in the microwave with a small amount of water to maintain moisture. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken tender.

Final Thoughts

You simply have to give the One Pan Chicken Caprese Baked Orzo Recipe a try if you love fuss-free meals bursting with fresh Italian flavors. Its perfect blend of ease, taste, and vibrant ingredients makes it a go-to crowd-pleaser any night of the week. Once you’ve made it, it’s sure to become one of those dishes you crave regularly and love sharing with friends and family.