30-Minute, One-Pan Creamy Chicken Orzo
A quick and delicious one-pan meal featuring tender chicken, creamy orzo, and spinach, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
- Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the aromatics: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add orzo and broth: Stir in the orzo pasta and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Incorporate cream and spinach: Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and chopped spinach. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach has wilted and the dish is creamy.
- Return chicken to the skillet: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve and enjoy: Plate the creamy chicken orzo and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
Use fresh garlic and onion for better flavor. Adjust creaminess to your preference.