If you’re craving a cozy, all-in-one dinner that’s anything but ordinary, look no further than One pot chicken risoni with crispy salami (orzo). This irresistibly creamy and flavorful family feast melds juicy chicken, golden batons of fragrant salami, tender risoni pasta (also called orzo), nourishing chickpeas, and handfuls of greens. Every spoonful is bursting with savory bite, warming spices, and creamy, cheesy lusciousness — and the best part? It all happens in just one pot! Whether you need a showstopper for guests or an impressive weeknight meal with minimum fuss, this easy, crowd-pleasing dish is always a winner.

One pot chicken risoni with crispy salami (orzo) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for One pot chicken risoni with crispy salami (orzo) are not only simple, but each brings something special to the party! Every component builds delicious layers of flavor, texture, and color — from crispy, spicy salami to creamy Parmesan and vibrant greens.

Olive oil: Provides that classic Mediterranean base and helps crisp up the salami to golden perfection.
Salami stick: Sliced and chopped — these morsels get gorgeously crispy and add a pop of smoky flavor!
Chicken breasts: Sliced into thin steaks so they cook quickly and stay juicy.
Kosher salt & black pepper: Essential seasoning for depth and balanced taste.
Garlic powder: Lends a punchy, savory warmth to the chicken.
Paprika: Adds subtle smokiness and a gentle, earthy spice.
Sage powder (optional): Brings a whisper of herby aroma, if you have it.
Fresh garlic cloves: For caramelized, garlicky sweetness in every bite.
Onion: Sautéed until golden for deep, savory undertones.
Chardonnay or dry white wine (optional): Deglazes the pan and brightens the sauce with acidity.
Tomato paste: Provides richness and a tangy backbone to the creamy sauce.
Risoni/orzo: The pasta at the heart of this dish, soaking up all the gorgeous liquid and flavor.
Canned chickpeas: Offer a pop of plant-based protein and creamy texture, or swap for any beans you love.
Low-sodium chicken stock: Builds the base of the sauce and ensures every bite is deeply savory.
Heavy cream: Adds a lavish, velvety finish to the sauce (low-fat is fine too!).
Finely grated Parmesan: The umami-packed cheese binds all the flavors together.
Baby spinach (or kale): For a burst of color, nutrients, and a hint of earthy freshness.
Sun dried tomato (optional): Intensely sweet and tangy — a game-changer if you have them!
Roughly chopped basil (optional): Lifts the finished dish with herbal brightness and beautiful flecks of green.

How to Make One pot chicken risoni with crispy salami (orzo)

Step 1: Mix and Spice the Chicken

In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, paprika, sage (if using), salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this punchy spice blend over both sides of your thin-cut chicken steaks, pressing gently so it all sticks. You’ll want all those seasonings for maximizing that golden, flavorful crust later on.

Step 2: Sizzle the Salami Until Crispy

Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Toss in your chopped salami batons and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring often, until the pieces turn crisp and gloriously golden-brown. Scoop them out with a slotted spoon into a bowl lined with paper towels, but leave their flavorful oil behind in the pan — that’s liquid gold you’ll use for the rest of the dish!

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Using the same pan (yes, don’t wash it!), lay down your seasoned chicken steaks. Sear them for about 3 minutes per side until they’re deeply colored and just cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 67°C or 153°F. Slide them onto a plate and loosely cover with foil to keep them warm while you tackle the next steps.

Step 4: Sauté Onion and Garlic, Deglaze with Wine

Keep your pan over medium-high heat and toss in the minced garlic and chopped onions. Sauté for about 1 and a half minutes until the onions turn translucent. If you’re using wine, pour it in now and let it simmer, stirring and scraping the browned bits (that’s the fond!) off the bottom of the pan. The wine adds fabulous flavor and cooks away, leaving nothing but goodness.

Step 5: Toast Orzo and Build the Sauce

Next, stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for about 1 minute to get rid of its raw edge. Add the risoni (orzo) and mix well, coating every bit of pasta in those lovely tomatoey juices. Toss in the chickpeas, chicken stock, salt, and pepper — this combo turns into a gorgeous, bubbling base for the risoni to cook in!

Step 6: Simmer Until Risoni is Almost Cooked

Bring everything to a gentle simmer and cook, uncovered, for 8 minutes, stirring every minute so the orzo doesn’t stick to the base. Lower the heat to medium as it thickens. You want the risoni just tender but still a touch al dente — it’ll finish perfectly creamy in the next step.

Step 7: Finish with Cream, Parmesan, and Greens

Once the risoni is almost done, stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan, baby spinach, and (if you’re using them) the sun dried tomatoes. Keep stirring until the spinach wilts into the sauce and the cheese melts, making the whole pot gloriously creamy and fragrant. Take the pan off the heat when everything is oozy and luscious. If the risoni is still too firm, add a splash more stock and give it another minute.

Step 8: Slice Chicken and Top with Crispy Salami

Slice your cooked chicken into thick pieces. Spoon generous helpings of the creamy risoni into bowls, top with those juicy chicken slices, plenty of crispy salami, extra Parmesan, and a shower of fresh basil if you have it. Now, grab your fork and dig right in — One pot chicken risoni with crispy salami (orzo) is served!

How to Serve One pot chicken risoni with crispy salami (orzo)

Garnishes

This dish truly shines with a handful of finishing touches. Shower each bowl with more grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of fresh chopped basil, and extra crispy salami for crunch. A swirl of good olive oil or a twist of fresh black pepper adds even more personality. The aromatic herbs and golden salami on top make every bite pop!

Side Dishes

Because One pot chicken risoni with crispy salami (orzo) is so satisfying on its own, you can keep sides simple. A crisp green salad with lemony vinaigrette balances the creaminess. Warm, crusty bread or garlic toast is also a fabulous choice for mopping up that luscious sauce — highly recommended for the carb-lovers at your table!

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving guests, present the risoni right out of the pot at the table for a rustic, family-style vibe. For something a little fancier, try spooning it into shallow pasta bowls with a dramatic tower of sliced chicken on top, a spiral of crispy salami, and a few basil leaves strategically placed for that Instagram-ready finish. Even in lunchboxes, it’s a guaranteed showstopper!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of One pot chicken risoni with crispy salami (orzo) keep beautifully! Let any extras come to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days; the flavors deepen and it gets even more delicious.

Freezing

This dish freezes nicely, especially if you leave off any garnishes. Portion cooled leftovers into freezer-safe containers, making sure to leave a little space for expansion. They’ll keep for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, simply transfer leftovers to a pot or skillet and add a splash of milk, cream, or chicken stock to loosen it up. Warm gently over medium-low heat, stirring until hot throughout. You can also microwave individual portions in a covered dish, stirring halfway through to make sure everything heats evenly.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are just as wonderful here and may even be more forgiving, staying juicy no matter what. Simply slice them thin so they cook quickly and follow the same steps.

Is there a vegetarian version of One pot chicken risoni with crispy salami (orzo)?

Definitely! Swap the chicken for more beans or hearty sautéed mushrooms, and use vegetarian salami or leave it out. Choose vegetable stock for an all-veggie version—just as creamy and flavorful.

What’s the best substitute for risoni if I can’t find it?

If risoni (orzo) isn’t in your pantry, other tiny pasta shapes like pastina, pearl couscous, or even small broken spaghetti will work. The cooking time might need adjusting, so keep an eye on the texture as it simmers.

Can I make One pot chicken risoni with crispy salami (orzo) ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it a day ahead, but hold off on adding the basil and crispy salami until just before serving, so the textures stay fresh and vibrant. It reheats beautifully with a splash of extra stock or cream to bring it back to life.

How can I make this dish a little lighter?

You can easily use low-fat cream or substitute half the cream with extra chicken stock. Skipping the sun dried tomatoes and using less Parmesan is also totally fine — the finished dish will still be creamy and luscious!

Final Thoughts

I can’t encourage you enough to give One pot chicken risoni with crispy salami (orzo) a try. It’s the kind of cozy, flavorful dinner everyone loves, absolutely packed with texture and excitement in every forkful. Whether you cook it up for a relaxed weeknight or a lively dinner party, it’s sure to become a new favorite at your table!

One pot chicken risoni with crispy salami (orzo) Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 10 reviews

Author: Noah
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Calorie

Print Recipe

Description

A delicious one-pot chicken risoni (orzo) dish with crispy salami, creamy sauce, and flavorful spices. This hearty and satisfying meal is perfect for a cozy dinner at home.

Instructions

Spice Mix: Mix the spices and season the chicken.
Crispy Salami: Cook salami until crispy, then set aside.
Cook Chicken: Sear chicken until golden, then set aside.
Sauté: Cook garlic and onion, deglaze with wine.
Risoni: Add tomato paste, risoni, chickpeas, stock, salt, and pepper. Simmer.
Cream & Spinach: Stir in cream, parmesan, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook until wilted.
Finish: Slice chicken, serve over risoni, top with crispy salami, parmesan, and basil.

Notes

Make sure to check the risoni for doneness before serving.
Allow the chicken to rest before slicing to retain juices.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 480 kcal
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 980mg
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 39g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 34g
Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: One-Pot Chicken Risoni, Orzo Recipe, Crispy Salami, Creamy Sauce