Name: Orzo alla Vodka with Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; ½ small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ¼ cup vodka; ¼ cup tomato paste; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta; 2 cups cooked or rotisserie chicken, shredded or cubed; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 handful fresh basil, torn; Salt and pepper, to taste

This Orzo alla Vodka with Chicken is a creamy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal. Tender orzo pasta, juicy chicken, and a rich tomato-vodka sauce come together in this simple one-pot recipe that’s ready in just 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful and Convenient: This recipe captures the essence of a classic vodka sauce, with a creamy texture and a hint of tanginess from the tomatoes and vodka.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this dish is a breeze to prepare, even for beginner cooks.
One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks together in one pot, minimizing cleanup and maximizing convenience.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Orzo alla Vodka with Chicken:

Orzo pasta: Uncooked, this small rice-shaped pasta is perfect for absorbing the creamy sauce.
Olive oil and unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor to the sauce.
Onion: Finely chopped, for flavor and texture.
Garlic: Minced, for aromatic depth.
Vodka: Adds a unique depth of flavor to the sauce.
Tomato paste: Adds a concentrated tomato flavor and richness to the sauce.
Chicken broth: Adds flavor and moisture to the sauce.
Heavy cream or whipping cream: Creates a rich and creamy sauce.
Cooked or rotisserie chicken: Shredded or cubed, adds protein and flavor.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty and nutty flavor.
Fresh basil: Torn or chopped, adds a fresh herb flavor.
Salt and pepper: To taste.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Orzo alla Vodka with Chicken

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil and butter in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

Pour in the vodka and let it bubble for 30 seconds to cook off some of the alcohol. Stir in the tomato paste until well combined. Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, and uncooked orzo. Increase the heat to high and stir well to ensure the tomato paste is dissolved. Once the mixture comes to a boil, reduce the heat to medium or medium-low to maintain a simmer. Cook uncovered for 10 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked through, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Add Chicken and Finish

Stir in the shredded or cubed chicken and cook for a minute or two, or until heated through. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Cover the pot for 3-5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and the sauce to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Serve

Serve the Orzo alla Vodka with Chicken immediately.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Adjust the consistency: If the orzo absorbs the liquid too quickly, add a splash more broth or cream. If the sauce is too thin, cover the pot for longer or continue simmering gently until it reaches your desired consistency.
Use high-quality ingredients: The better the quality of your ingredients, especially the tomatoes, cheese, and pasta, the better the flavor of the dish.
Don’t overcook the orzo: Cook the orzo until it’s al dente, or tender but still slightly firm to the bite.

How to Serve Orzo alla Vodka with Chicken

Main Course: This Orzo alla Vodka with Chicken is a hearty and satisfying meal on its own.
Side Dish: You can also serve it as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish.
Lunch or Brunch: Enjoy it for lunch or brunch with a side of crusty bread and a fresh salad.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, the dish is best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating:

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use other small pasta shapes, such as ditalini or risoni.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can omit the chicken or use a vegetarian chicken substitute, such as sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas.

Can I make this dish without alcohol?

Yes, you can substitute the vodka with an equal amount of chicken broth or vegetable broth.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce along with the black pepper.

There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Orzo alla Vodka with Chicken that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

Stacy Corbo

Hi, I’m Stacy Corbo! From quick dinners to family favorites, I’m here to help you bring joy to the table, one recipe at a time.

Orzo alla Vodka with Chicken Recipe