Easy Rice Orzo

Transform weeknight dinners with this savory and satisfying Easy Rice Orzo recipe, a delightful blend of fluffy white rice and toasted orzo pasta cooked to perfection in rich, low-sodium chicken broth. Infused with the warm flavors of garlic powder, a touch of butter, and a hint of black pepper, this 30-minute side dish elevates classic comfort food with minimal effort. The golden toasted orzo adds a nutty depth to each bite, making it the perfect pairing for roasted chicken, grilled vegetables, or seafood. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and a burst of herbal freshness. Quick, versatile, and family-friendly, this recipe is your solution for easy dinners without compromising on flavor.

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:5 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 0.5 cups orzo pasta
• 1 cups long-grain white rice
• 2.5 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
• 0.5 teaspoons garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoons salt
• 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the orzo pasta to the pan and toast, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3

Stir in the long-grain white rice and cook for 1 minute to coat the rice with the butter and combine it with the orzo.

Step 4

Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Step 5

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid.

Step 6

Simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice and orzo are tender.

Step 7

Remove from heat and let the dish sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 8

Fluff the rice orzo with a fork and garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	934.3 grams (934.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	865

Total Fat 27.60g	35%
Saturated Fat 14.40g	72%
Polyunsaturated Fat NaNg
Cholesterol 62mg	21%
Sodium 1538mg	67%
Total Carbohydrate 135.60g	49%
Dietary Fiber 6.50g	23%
Total Sugars 3.20g
Protein 22.20g	44%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 64mg	5%
Iron 7mg	36%
Potassium 226mg	5%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 28.2%

Protein: 10.1%

Carbs: 61.7%