If you have been searching for a dish that combines comforting creaminess with vibrant herbal freshness, this Creamy Chicken Broth Rice Pilaf with Orzo and Fresh Herbs Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender long-grain rice and perfectly toasted orzo soaked in rich, buttery chicken broth, seasoned with a blend of spices for warmth and depth, and brightened by fragrant fresh herbs. Whether you want a dazzling side or a modest star on your dinner plate, this recipe delivers a luxurious texture and savory flavor that feels both homey and a little special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple ingredients is the first joyful step to creating this satisfying dish. Each element plays its part: the orzo for a lovely nutty contrast, the chicken broth bringing deep savory notes, and the fresh herbs adding that bright, fresh finish. You really don’t need a pantry full of complicated ingredients to make something feel indulgent.
- Olive oil: For nutty richness and a perfect medium to toast the grains.
- Orzo: Small pasta that adds texture and a crisp toasted flavor when cooked this way.
- Long grain rice: The heart of the pilaf, fluffy and tender when cooked correctly.
- Unsalted chicken broth: The key to deep, savory flavor and moist, tender grains.
- Unsalted butter: Adds creamy richness and helps carry the spices beautifully.
- Salt: Essential to highlight and balance all other flavors.
- Garlic powder: Adds warm, aromatic depth without overpowering.
- Black pepper: For subtle heat and complexity.
- Smoked paprika: Adds a slightly smoky, sweet undertone.
- Onion powder: Enhances savory notes and rounds out seasonings.
- Parsley: Fresh herbs that brighten the dish and provide a clean finish.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Broth Rice Pilaf with Orzo and Fresh Herbs Recipe
Step 1: Rinse and Prepare the Rice
Start by giving your long grain rice a good rinse under cold water using a fine mesh strainer. This simple step removes excess starch, ensuring your rice turns out fluffy and separate rather than sticky or clumpy.
Step 2: Toast the Orzo and Rice
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add both the orzo and the rinsed rice to the pan. Stir frequently as you cook them until they turn a beautiful golden brown. This toasting step is what imparts a nutty depth to the pilaf and elevates the final flavor tremendously.
Step 3: Add the Broth, Butter, and Spices
Pour in 3 cups of unsalted chicken broth and toss in ¼ cup of unsalted butter. Follow with seasonings: 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika, and ½ teaspoon onion powder. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of parsley as well. Stir everything together to combine all these delicious flavors thoroughly.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil before reducing the heat to medium-low. Cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice and orzo are tender and have absorbed all the flavorful liquid. Once done, fluff the pilaf gently with a fork to separate the grains and evenly distribute the buttery herbs throughout.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Broth Rice Pilaf with Orzo and Fresh Herbs Recipe
Garnishes
To finish off this pilaf, a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or even a few slivers of toasted almonds can add lovely color, texture, and a fresh flavor burst that complements every bite beautifully.
Side Dishes
This pilaf pairs wonderfully with a wide range of dishes: roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even a vibrant vegetable stir-fry. Its gentle creaminess and herbaceous notes serve as a perfect canvas that enhances almost any main course.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the creamy chicken broth rice pilaf scooped into hollowed-out bell peppers or alongside a protein nestled on a bed of baby greens. The visual contrast and layering of flavors can make your meal feel instantly festive and thoughtfully plated.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover pilaf in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days, making for convenient and delicious meals later in the week.
Freezing
This dish freezes well! Simply transfer cooled pilaf to a freezer-safe container or bag, remove as much air as possible, and freeze for up to 2 months. This makes it easy to enjoy the Creamy Chicken Broth Rice Pilaf with Orzo and Fresh Herbs Recipe anytime you want without starting from scratch.
Reheating
Reheat leftover pilaf gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to restore its creamy texture. Fluff again before serving to bring back that light and fluffy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes! Vegetable broth will work nicely if you want a vegetarian-friendly or lighter option. Just choose a good-quality broth to maintain rich flavor.
Is orzo necessary for this recipe?
Orzo adds a lovely texture and nuttiness, but if you don’t have any on hand, you can omit it or substitute with another small pasta like acini di pepe for similar results.
Can I cook this pilaf in a rice cooker?
This pilaf relies on the toasting step which develops its deep flavors, so cooking it all in a rice cooker will change the taste. However, you can toast the orzo and rice separately, then finish cooking with broth in the rice cooker if you’re pressed for time.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply omit the orzo or replace it with a gluten-free small pasta alternative if you tolerate gluten-free grains. The rice and herbs will still make a delicious pilaf.
What herbs work best besides parsley?
Fresh dill, thyme, or chives also complement the Creamy Chicken Broth Rice Pilaf with Orzo and Fresh Herbs Recipe beautifully, offering subtle but lovely variations in flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Broth Rice Pilaf with Orzo and Fresh Herbs Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to comfort dishes because it feels both cozy and special. Its simple ingredients come together effortlessly but the result tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. I truly hope you enjoy making and sharing this fragrant, creamy pilaf as much as I do!
Print
Creamy Chicken Broth Rice Pilaf with Orzo and Fresh Herbs Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
This flavorful Rice Pilaf combines perfectly toasted orzo and long grain rice cooked in a seasoned chicken broth with butter and aromatic spices for a comforting and delicious side dish. With a balance of savory herbs and spices, this pilaf is easy to prepare and pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses.
Ingredients
Rice and Pasta
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup orzo
- 1 cup long grain rice
Broth and Seasonings
- 3 cups unsalted chicken broth
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp parsley, plus extra for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse Rice: Rinse the long grain rice in a fine mesh strainer under cold water to remove excess starch and prevent clumping during cooking.
- Toast Orzo and Rice: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the orzo and rinsed rice to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until the orzo turns golden brown and the rice is lightly toasted, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and add the butter, salt, garlic powder, black pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and parsley. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover the pan with a lid and simmer for approximately 15 minutes, or until the rice and orzo are tender and the liquid has been fully absorbed.
- Fluff and Garnish: Once cooked, remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains. Garnish with additional parsley before serving.
Notes
- Be sure to rinse the rice thoroughly to avoid a gummy texture.
- Toasted orzo adds a nutty flavor and enhances texture.
- You can substitute vegetable broth to make this dish vegetarian.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt depending on your broth’s sodium content.
- Serve as a side dish with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or your favorite protein.
