Creamy One-Pan Orzo with Chicken Bacon and Butternut Squash for Ultimate Comfort

When the week gets busy, finding a meal that is quick, satisfying, and full of flavor can feel like a challenge. This creamy one-pan orzo dish with ground chicken, crispy bacon, and tender butternut squash fits the bill perfectly. It combines hearty protein, sweet autumn squash, and a touch of creaminess in one skillet, making it an ideal comfort meal that comes together fast and leaves you with minimal cleanup.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this recipe offers a delicious balance of textures and flavors that feels indulgent without being complicated. Here’s how to make this cozy dish your new weeknight favorite.

One-pan creamy orzo with chicken, bacon, and butternut squash, ready to serve

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb ground chicken

• 4–5 slices bacon, chopped

• 2–3 cups butternut squash cubes

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1½ cups dry orzo

• 3 cups chicken broth (plus extra if needed)

• ½ cup cream, half & half, or coconut milk

• ½ cup grated parmesan (optional but adds richness)

• 1 tsp thyme

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• Black pepper to taste

• Handful of fresh spinach

  
  

These ingredients come together to create a dish that is creamy, savory, and slightly sweet from the butternut squash. The smoked paprika adds a subtle warmth, while the parmesan and cream bring a luscious texture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Bacon

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until it becomes crispy. Remove the bacon pieces and set them aside, but keep the rendered bacon fat in the pan. This fat will add a smoky depth to the rest of the dish.

2. Sauté the Butternut Squash and Aromatics

Add the butternut squash cubes to the bacon fat in the skillet. Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash begins to soften and develop a golden color. Next, add the diced onion and cook for another 3 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, and smoked paprika, letting the spices bloom and release their aroma.

3. Brown the Ground Chicken

Push the squash mixture to one side of the pan. Add the ground chicken to the empty side and break it up with a spatula. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

4. Add Orzo and Broth

Pour the dry orzo directly into the skillet with the chicken and vegetables. Stir to combine. Then add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. If the orzo absorbs the liquid too quickly, add a little more broth to keep it creamy.

5. Make It Creamy

Once the orzo is tender and most of the broth has been absorbed, stir in the cream, half & half, or coconut milk. Add the grated parmesan cheese if you’re using it, and return the crispy bacon to the pan. Finally, fold in the fresh spinach leaves, allowing them to wilt gently in the residual heat.

6. Taste and Adjust

Give the dish a final taste. Add more black pepper or parmesan if you want extra flavor. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the dish if you prefer a bit of acidity.

Tips to Boost Flavor

• Add fresh sage while sautéing the onions for an earthy note that pairs beautifully with butternut squash.

• Drizzle hot honey over the finished dish for a sweet and spicy contrast.

• Top with crispy fried sage leaves for a crunchy garnish and aromatic touch.

• Splash white wine into the pan when cooking the onions to add complexity and depth.

  
  

These simple additions can elevate the dish and make it feel even more special.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Nights

This one-pan orzo recipe is designed for ease and flavor. Using ground chicken keeps the protein lean and cooks quickly. The bacon adds a smoky crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy orzo and soft squash. Cooking everything in one skillet means fewer dishes and less time spent cleaning up. Plus, the ingredients are easy to find and affordable, making this a practical choice for weeknight dinners.

The combination of textures—from tender squash to crispy bacon—and the balance of savory and sweet flavors make this dish comforting without being heavy. It’s a great way to enjoy seasonal produce like butternut squash in a new and exciting way.

Final Thoughts

This creamy one-pan orzo with chicken, bacon, and butternut squash is a standout recipe for anyone looking to enjoy a quick, flavorful, and comforting meal. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you want something satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The recipe is flexible, allowing you to swap ingredients or add your favorite herbs and spices to suit your taste.