Pollo Loco-Inspired Chicken Thigh Orzo Skillet | Healthy One-Pan Dinner
Pollo Loco-Inspired Chicken Thigh Orzo Skillet: Your New Favorite Healthy Dinner
If you love the bold flavors of Pollo Loco but want something equally delicious and healthier, this one-skillet chicken thigh orzo recipe is about to become your go-to weeknight dinner. The combination of juicy boneless skinless chicken thighs and tender orzo pasta creates a comforting, restaurant-quality meal that comes together in under 30 minutes all in one pan. Whether you’re familiar with Arroz Con Pollo or just looking for new chicken thigh recipes with orzo, this dish delivers incredible flavor without the mess.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, trimmed
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare and Season Chicken
Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season generously with cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
In the same skillet, add diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Cook the Orzo
Add orzo to the skillet and toast for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Pour in chicken broth and deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.
Step 5: Finish Cooking
Return chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the orzo mixture. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 12-15 minutes until orzo is tender and chicken is cooked through.
Step 6: Final Touches
Stir in cherry tomatoes and fresh cilantro. Let sit covered for 2 minutes. Serve hot with lime wedges for squeezing over top.
Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken Thigh Orzo
- Don’t Skip the Sear: Browning the chicken first adds incredible flavor depth
- Toast the Orzo: Toasting the orzo before adding liquid prevents mushiness
- Rest Before Serving: Letting the dish rest covered allows flavors to meld
- Adjust Spice Level: Add more chili powder or diced jalapeños for extra heat
- Vegetable Variations: Try adding corn, black beans, or spinach for extra nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but reduce cooking time by 2-3 minutes as chicken breast cooks faster than thighs.
Is orzo the same as rice?
No, orzo is a rice-shaped pasta made from semolina flour. It has a different texture and cooking time than rice.
Can I make this dish ahead?
Absolutely! This dish reheats beautifully. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
What makes this recipe “Pollo Loco-inspired”?
The spice blend of cumin, paprika, and chili powder mimics the signature flavors found in Pollo Loco marinades.
This healthy chicken orzo dish proves that delicious, satisfying dinners don’t need to be complicated. The one-skillet method means minimal cleanup, while the Pollo Loco flavors ensure maximum enjoyment. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something special without the fuss!
Pollo Loco-Inspired Chicken Thigh Orzo Skillet: Your New Favorite Healthy Dinner
Ingredients
Method
- Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season generously with cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add orzo to the skillet and toast for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Pour in chicken broth and deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.
- Return chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the orzo mixture. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 12-15 minutes until orzo is tender and chicken is cooked through.
- Stir in cherry tomatoes and fresh cilantro. Let sit covered for 2 minutes. Serve hot with lime wedges for squeezing over top.
