Rushing between work, errands, and family commitments can sometimes feel like juggling flaming torches, but what if I told you there’s a way to keep dinner simple without sacrificing flavor or nutrition? Enter my One Pan Baked Pesto Orzo with Chicken Meatballs—a dish that’s as comforting as it is effortless. This delightful meal marries savory chicken meatballs, infused with vibrant pesto, and a creamy orzo, all cooked in a single pan. The best part? You can sneak in some hidden nutrition with shredded zucchini and mushrooms, making it a hit with kids and adults alike! Perfect for busy weeknights, this meal not only ensures minimal cleanup but also delivers crave-worthy flavors that will bring everyone to the table. Ready to dive into a wholesome dish that’s bound to become a weeknight favorite? Let’s get cooking!

Why Will You Love This Recipe?

One-Pan Wonder: Simplifying dinner is made easy with this recipe, as everything is cooked in just one pan.

Kid-Friendly: The hidden veggies in the chicken meatballs ensure your little ones get their nutrients without even noticing!

Savory Goodness: With a delicious blend of basil pesto and juicy chicken, this dish packs flavors that your family will crave.

Nutritious Twist: Enriched with zucchini and mushrooms, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra vitamins.

Time-Saving Delight: You’ll have a wholesome meal ready in under an hour, leaving you more time to spend with loved ones.

For more easy meal inspirations, check out my Pesto Chicken Broccoli or Baked Turkey Meatballs.

One Pan Baked Pesto Orzo Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• Zucchini – Adds moisture and nutrition to meatballs; substitute with yellow squash if desired.
• Ground Chicken – Provides protein and a light flavor; ground turkey can be used for a leaner option.
• Panko Breadcrumbs – Helps bind the meatballs; gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used for a GF version.
• Egg – Acts as a binder for the meatballs; can omit for a vegan option, using flaxseed meal instead.
• Basil Pesto – Infuses flavor into both meatballs and orzo; use store-bought or homemade pesto as preferred.
• Lemon Zest – Brightens flavors in the meatballs and orzo; fresh lemon juice enhances the dish.
• Italian Seasoning – Adds depth to the meatball mixture; dried herbs like basil or oregano can be substituted.

For the Orzo

• Baby Bella Mushrooms – Enhances umami and texture; use any mushrooms of choice, or omit if not preferred.
• Low Sodium Chicken Broth – Adds flavor and moisture for cooking orzo; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.
• Milk of Choice – Contributes creaminess to the orzo; non-dairy milk is a good substitute.
• Uncooked Orzo – The main carbohydrate of the dish; gluten-free pasta can replace traditional orzo.

For Topping

• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Provides a melty, delicious topping; feel free to use a dairy-free alternative.
• Fresh Basil & Parmesan – For garnishing and additional flavor; fresh herbs always elevate a dish.

Preparing this One Pan Baked Pesto Orzo is not only delightful but also a special way of making family mealtime even more enjoyable!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One Pan Baked Pesto Orzo

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (205°C). This ensures that your One Pan Baked Pesto Orzo will cook evenly and reach that delightful golden finish. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients and prepare your cooking area, setting the stage for a seamless cooking experience.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini
Next, take your fresh zucchini, shred it using a box grater, and place it on a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out any excess moisture to ensure your chicken meatballs hold together beautifully. Once drained, add the shredded zucchini to a mixing bowl, ready for the flavorful mix that will create your meatballs.

Step 3: Make the Meatball Mixture
In the bowl with the zucchini, combine the ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, egg, basil pesto, lemon zest, Italian seasoning, and a generous pinch of black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly but gently, ensuring that each ingredient is evenly distributed. Once well combined, shape the mixture into about 16 equal-sized meatballs, setting them aside on a plate while you prepare the skillet.

Step 4: Brown the Meatballs
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, carefully add the meatballs, browning them on all sides for about 6 minutes. You want them to achieve a lovely golden color, enhancing their flavor. Once browned, transfer the meatballs to a plate and set them aside for later.

Step 5: Cook the Mushrooms
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed and toss in the baby Bella mushrooms. Cook them for about 5-8 minutes until they turn brown and caramelized, stirring occasionally. When the mushrooms are tender, add minced garlic, cooking it for an additional minute until fragrant, allowing those wonderful aromas to fill your kitchen.

Step 6: Combine Liquid Ingredients
Stir in the low sodium chicken broth, your choice of milk, the remaining pesto, and the uncooked orzo into the skillet with the mushrooms. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the orzo to absorb the flavors as it cooks. Stir well, ensuring everything is well combined, and prepare for the magic of baking.

Step 7: Nestle the Meatballs
Once simmering, gently nestle the browned chicken meatballs back into the orzo mixture, distributing them evenly throughout the pan. Carefully transfer the entire skillet to the preheated oven, allowing it to bake for 10-12 minutes. This baking time will cook the orzo and bring all the flavors together beautifully.

Step 8: Add Cheese Topping
After baking, remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Return the skillet to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese melts and bubbles up, turning a lovely golden color. This step ensures a deliciously cheesy finish to your One Pan Baked Pesto Orzo.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Finally, once everything is beautifully cooked and the cheese is perfectly melted, remove your skillet from the oven. Garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Serve hot, and get ready to enjoy a comforting meal that your family will adore!

What to Serve with One Pan Baked Pesto Orzo with Chicken Meatballs

Pair your delicious, comforting dish with these delightful accompaniments to create a fulfilling dining experience.

Simple Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast. The crunch balances the creamy orzo beautifully.
Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any remaining pesto orzo sauce. Its crispy texture complements the soft meatballs perfectly.
Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus in olive oil and roast until tender. Their caramelized flavors add depth to your plate.
Steamed Broccoli: Vibrant, steamed broccoli lightly seasoned brings a nutritious element to the meal. Its earthy taste enhances the dish’s overall flavor while adding fresh texture.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of lemonade or iced tea brings a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory meal, making it feel like a cozy family gathering.
Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with a rich chocolate mousse. Its smooth, creamy texture is a delightful way to indulge after a hearty main dish.

Expert Tips for One Pan Baked Pesto Orzo

Moisture Control: Ensure to remove excess moisture from the zucchini; this prevents soggy meatballs and maintains the desired texture in the dish.
Pan Space Matters: Don’t overcrowd the pan while browning the meatballs; doing so can cause uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary for the best results.
Halfway Stirring: Stir the orzo mixture halfway through baking to ensure even cooking, especially if using gluten-free pasta, which can sometimes require extra attention.
Season Wisely: Taste the orzo mixture before baking; if it feels a bit bland, a sprinkle of salt or some extra seasoning can elevate the flavor dramatically.
Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with cheese! Using a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan adds great depth, but you can also opt for dairy-free alternatives if needed.

One Pan Baked Pesto Orzo Variations

Feel free to personalize this delicious dish to suit your tastes and dietary needs!

Gluten-Free: Substitute regular orzo with gluten-free pasta to keep it celiac-friendly. The flavor remains delightful, ensuring everyone can enjoy this comforting meal!
Lean Protein: Swap ground chicken for ground turkey for a leaner option, making it just as savory and tender while lowering the fat content.
Veggie Boost: Toss in fresh spinach or kale for an extra pop of color and nutrients. These greens wilt beautifully, adding vibrancy and flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Dairy-Free: Use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk, and choose a dairy-free cheese for a creamy finish. This keeps the dish indulgent while accommodating dairy sensitivities.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture for a subtle heat that complements the pesto beautifully. Spice lovers will appreciate this satisfying twist!
Pesto Variety: Experiment with sun-dried tomato pesto instead of traditional basil pesto for a different flavor profile. The rich, tangy taste adds a unique zing to your dish.
Mushroom Swap: If Baby Bella mushrooms aren’t your favorite, feel free to use shiitake or cremini mushrooms instead. Each variety brings its unique flavor, enhancing the umami experience.

For a delightful weeknight dish that adapts beautifully, check out my Cheesy One Pot for more family-friendly ideas or enjoy the flavors in my Baked Turkey Meatballs. Happy cooking!

How to Store and Freeze One Pan Baked Pesto Orzo

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: If you wish to freeze beforehand, divide the cooled orzo and meatballs into meal-sized portions in airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore creaminess.
Quality Check: Always check for freshness and flavor before serving leftovers. This One Pan Baked Pesto Orzo is best enjoyed fresh but can still be delicious when reheated!

Make Ahead Options

These One Pan Baked Pesto Orzo with Chicken Meatballs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the meatball mixture (without baking) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix all the meatball ingredients and shape them into balls, then refrigerate in an airtight container. Additionally, you can cook the mushrooms and prepare the orzo mixture up to 3 days ahead as well; just store it in the fridge, covered tightly to maintain its moisture. When you’re ready to serve, combine the prepped meatballs with the orzo and bake according to the original instructions. This way, you can enjoy a comforting, wholesome meal with minimal effort and maximum flavor during your busy weeknights!

One Pan Baked Pesto Orzo with Chicken Meatballs Recipe FAQs

How do I pick the right zucchini for the meatballs?
Absolutely! Choose zucchinis that are firm and blemish-free, avoiding ones with dark spots or soft spots. Fresh zucchinis lend moisture and nutrition. If you find yellow squash at the market, it’s a delightful substitute with a similar flavor profile!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. To keep them fresh, allow the dish to cool completely before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy again, just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through!

Can I freeze One Pan Baked Pesto Orzo?
Yes! This is a great dish for freezing. Allow the orzo and meatballs to cool completely, then divide into meal-sized portions and store in airtight containers or freezer bags. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently, adding a splash of chicken broth as needed to bring back that creamy texture.

What should I do if my meatballs are falling apart?
If you find your meatballs crumbling, it may be due to excess moisture in the zucchini. Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible before mixing. Another tip is to ensure your mixture is well combined and not too wet. If needed, add a bit more panko breadcrumbs to help bind them together as you form your meatballs!

Is this recipe safe for allergies?
Absolutely! This recipe can be tailored for various dietary needs. If you’re looking for gluten-free options, simply swap in gluten-free breadcrumbs and orzo. Additionally, you can omit the egg and use a tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with three tablespoons of water as a binder for a vegan version. Just check for any specific allergies in your family before preparing!

Can pets enjoy this meal?
While the ingredients are generally wholesome, this recipe contains seasonings and cheese that may not be suitable for pets. Avoid sharing any leftovers with them to keep their diets safe and healthy!