If you want a warm, yummy meal that’s fast to make and doesn’t leave a pile of dirty dishes, try this Creamy Chicken Orzo recipe. It’s ready in only 30 minutes. This one-pot meal mixes soft chicken breast, tiny orzo pasta, and a super creamy sauce with garlic, onion, and Parmesan cheese.
Fresh spinach adds bright color and healthy stuff, so it’s a meal that tastes like a treat but is good for you too. You cook it all in one skillet, which is awesome for busy nights when you want something filling without a big mess. Serve it with crusty bread to scoop up the delicious sauce, and everyone will love it. It might even become one of your favorite dinners!
This dish feels like creamy risotto but doesn’t need you to stir it all the time, so it’s way easier to make. It’s perfect for cooking for your family, friends, or just yourself, and every bite is so good. It’s also a sneaky way to get picky eaters to eat some veggies.
Let’s check out how to make this awesome meal, plus some tips, nutrition facts, and answers to questions you might have.
See also: 20 Quick and Easy Dinner Recipes
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Orzo
This recipe checks all the boxes for a weeknight winner:
- Quick and Easy: Done in 30 minutes, perfect for busy schedules.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time to relax.
- Comforting yet Light: Creamy and rich but balanced with spinach and chicken.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with different veggies or proteins.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the cheesy, creamy sauce.
For those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle while enjoying indulgent meals, consider pairing this dish with supplements like NuviaLab Sugar Control to help manage blood sugar levels or Fibre Select to support digestion and detoxification.
Ingredients
To make this Creamy Chicken Orzo for 4 servings, gather these ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup orzo pasta, uncooked
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth, low-sodium
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper, or to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
For those aiming to support weight management, Moringa Actives can complement this meal by reducing hunger and boosting metabolism.
See also: Spaghetti Aglio e Olio Recipe
Kitchen Equipment/Appliances Needed
You’ll need the following tools to prepare this recipe:
- Large skillet (12-inch or larger)
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Start by chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, and cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Roughly chop the spinach and grate the Parmesan cheese. Having everything ready makes the cooking process seamless.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Cook the Orzo
Add the orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the oil and aromatics. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 5: Add Cream and Chicken
Stir in the heavy cream and return the seared chicken to the skillet. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 6: Finish with Spinach and Parmesan
Add the chopped spinach and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the sauce, about 1-2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or black pepper if needed.
Step 7: Serve
Serve the Creamy Chicken Orzo hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Pair with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
See also: Best Jambalaya Recipe
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Check the orzo a minute or two before the package’s suggested cooking time to ensure it stays al dente.
- Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts perfectly into the dish. If using frozen, thaw and squeeze out excess water first.
- Customize the Veggies: Swap spinach for kale, peas, or mushrooms for variety.
- Make it Lighter: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a lighter version.
- Boost Immunity: Support your overall health with NuviaLab Immune, which strengthens your body’s defense mechanisms.
Nutritional Facts
Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 580 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 28g (Saturated Fat: 14g)
- Carbohydrates: 45g (Fiber: 2g, Sugars: 3g)
- Sodium: 780mg
- Cholesterol: 120mg
These values may vary based on specific brands or substitutions. For those following a ketogenic diet, NuviaLab Keto can support weight control while enjoying this dish in moderation.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream to restore creaminess. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
- Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
For those looking to detoxify their body, Matcha Extreme supports weight control and detoxification, complementing a balanced diet.
See also: The Best Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Variations
- Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add mushrooms or zucchini for heartiness.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.
- Herbaceous: Stir in fresh basil or parsley at the end for brightness.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free orzo or substitute with rice.
Pairing Suggestions
- Bread: Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread to mop up the sauce.
- Salad: A light arugula or Caesar salad balances the richness.
- Wine: Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir.
- Coffee Boost: Enjoy with Cappuccino MCT, a bulletproof coffee that supports metabolism and energy.
FAQs About Creamy Chicken Orzo
1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells work well. Adjust cooking time based on the package instructions.
2. Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat with a splash of chicken broth.
3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute.
4. How can I make this dish healthier?
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, increase the spinach, and opt for low-sodium chicken broth. Pair with Green Coffee 5K for weight loss support.
5. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs add extra flavor. Cook them for 1-2 minutes longer during searing.
See also: Easy Chicken Alfredo Recipe
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken Orzo is a game-changer for anyone who loves comforting meals without the fuss. Its rich, cheesy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant spinach come together in a dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple. Perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
For those focused on wellness, consider incorporating Fat Burn Active to support your fitness goals or Collagen Select for healthy skin, hair, and nails. These supplements can enhance your lifestyle while you enjoy delicious meals like this one.
Try this recipe tonight and let its cozy flavors warm your soul. Happy cooking.
Looking for more chicken recipes? Here are a few of my faves:
- Easy Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
- Easy Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
- Easy Orange Chicken Recipe
- Easy Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
- Irresistible Marry Me Chicken Recipe
