Chickpea Orzo Recipe (Healthy One-Skillet Dinner)

Sauté the vegetables: Heat 1 - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1 large onion (chopped), 2 carrots (cut into discs), and 3 packed cups kale (chopped) with a pinch of salt. Cook for about 4 minutes, until the onion softens and the kale wilts.

Build flavor: Stir in 2 cloves garlic (grated), 1 teaspoon rosemary, and 4 tablespoons tomato paste. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring often, until fragrant and rich in color.

Add chickpeas and simmer: Add 2 cans chickpeas (drained and rinsed), 4 cups vegetable broth, ¾ teaspoon salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir, cover, and bring to a gentle boil. Lower the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

Cook the orzo: Add 1 cup orzo pasta and 1–2 cups more broth if needed. Simmer uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring often, until the orzo is almost tender. Turn off the heat just before it’s done — it will finish cooking as you bring it to the table.

Taste and serve: Adjust seasoning, then serve with a drizzle of olive oil, a squeeze of lemon, or a sprinkle of Parmesan.