Ingredients
Method
- Set a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, add the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often, until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Stir in the mixed vegetables and continue cooking for 3 to 5 minutes, until the carrots begin to soften and the peas turn bright green.
- Pour in the chicken broth all at once, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring the liquid to a rolling boil.
- Add the uncooked orzo and Italian seasoning, then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and has absorbed most of the broth.
- Fold in the shredded chicken and coconut milk, stirring thoroughly to combine. Let the mixture warm through for 2 to 3 minutes, then season with salt and pepper to your taste.
- Ladle the creamy chicken pot pie orzo into bowls and serve hot. If desired, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Nutrition
Notes
Swap the coconut milk for 2 cups of heavy cream mixed with 1/2 cup of chicken broth if you prefer a more traditional dairy-based sauce.
For a pot pie crust, spoon the cooked orzo into a baking dish, top with puff pastry, and bake at 375°F for 15 to 18 minutes until golden.
Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container; add a splash of broth when reheating to restore creaminess.
Use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time; simply remove the skin and shred the meat.
Cook the orzo just until al dente, as it will continue to absorb liquid as it sits; stir in extra broth if it becomes too thick.
For a California touch, fold in a handful of baby spinach or kale during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Season gradually; the broth and coconut milk vary in saltiness, so taste before adding too much salt.
