Easy Chicken Piccata Orzo Casserole Recipe: A Comforting One-Pan Delight
If you’re looking for a cozy, flavorful meal that combines the zesty flair of chicken piccata with the heartiness of a pasta bake, the Easy Chicken Piccata Orzo Casserole is the perfect dish. This simple recipe brings together tender chicken, buttery orzo pasta, tangy lemon, and savory capers for a comforting meal that feels gourmet yet effortless enough for a weeknight dinner.
What Is Chicken Piccata Orzo Casserole?
Chicken piccata is a classic Italian-American dish featuring chicken cutlets sautéed in a buttery lemon-caper sauce. The casserole version takes these beloved flavors and turns them into a creamy, baked pasta dish with orzo — a small, rice-shaped pasta that perfectly absorbs sauces and seasonings. This recipe offers the same bright, tangy taste as the traditional version but with the ease of a one-pan bake.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this easy chicken piccata orzo casserole, you’ll need:
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Chicken breasts – boneless and skinless, cut into cubes or strips
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Orzo pasta – the base that gives this casserole its creamy texture
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Olive oil and butter – for sautéing and flavor
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Garlic and shallots – to create a rich, aromatic base
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Chicken broth – for cooking the orzo to perfection
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Lemon juice and zest – adding that signature piccata tang
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Capers – for a burst of briny flavor
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Parmesan cheese – for creaminess and depth
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Fresh parsley – to brighten up the dish before serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish or casserole pan. -
Sauté the Chicken
In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown. Remove and set aside. -
Cook the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add more butter if needed. Sauté minced garlic and shallots until fragrant. -
Combine the Ingredients
Stir in uncooked orzo, chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, and capers. Bring to a simmer, then mix in the cooked chicken. -
Bake the Casserole
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for about 20–25 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. -
Add the Finishing Touches
Remove from the oven, sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese, and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes until golden and bubbly. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Quick and easy – minimal prep and one pan make cleanup simple.
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Family-friendly – creamy, tangy, and savory flavors everyone enjoys.
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Perfect for meal prep – reheats beautifully for lunch or dinner.
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Elegant yet comforting – great for both weeknights and entertaining.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with:
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A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
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Roasted or steamed vegetables
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A slice of warm garlic bread or crusty baguette
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to keep the orzo moist and warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Conclusion
The Easy Chicken Piccata Orzo Casserole offers the best of both worlds — the classic, citrusy flair of chicken piccata and the comforting texture of baked pasta. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. Once you try it, this dish will surely earn a regular spot in your recipe rotation.