Description
30-Minute Creamy Chicken Orzo
This quick and easy one-pan dish is perfect for busy weeknights. Creamy chicken orzo with cherry tomatoes and spinach brings the comfort of home-cooked Italian flavor right to your table. The basil pesto adds a burst of freshness, while the chicken stays juicy and tender. It’s a cozy, comforting meal that looks and tastes restaurant-quality—all made in just 30 minutes!
1.5 lb chicken breasts, skinless, boneless
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt & pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup orzo, uncooked
5 cloves garlic, minced
10 oz cherry tomatoes, sliced
2 cups chicken stock
5 oz fresh spinach
½ cup heavy cream
¼ cup basil pesto
Directions:
1. Season chicken. Sear in skillet, then set aside.
2. Cook orzo in skillet with garlic, stock, and tomatoes.
3. Add spinach, cream, pesto, and chicken. Simmer until heated through.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Kcal: 659 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep & Season: Pat the chicken breasts dry and cut them into 1-inch cubes. In a bowl, toss the chicken with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. The chicken does not need to be cooked through. Remove to a plate and set aside.
3. Toast the Orzo: In the same skillet, add the uncooked orzo and minced garlic. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until the orzo is lightly toasted and fragrant.
4. Simmer the Base: Pour in the chicken stock and add the sliced cherry tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
5. Finish the Dish: Stir in the fresh spinach until wilted. Add the heavy cream, basil pesto, and the seared chicken (with any accumulated juices) back to the skillet. Stir to combine and simmer, uncovered, for 3-4 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is creamy and cohesive.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy orzo immediately while hot. For a complete meal, pair it with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Crusty garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. Garnish with extra fresh basil, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, or a crack of black pepper.
How-to Summary
Cube and season chicken, then sear until golden. Remove chicken. In the same pan, toast orzo and garlic. Add chicken stock and tomatoes, then simmer until orzo is tender. Finish by stirring in spinach, cream, pesto, and the seared chicken. Simmer until heated through and creamy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta? Yes, small pasta like ditalini or small shells work, but cooking times will vary. Avoid long pasta shapes.
How can I make this dish lighter? Substitute half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for the heavy cream. You can also reduce the amount of pesto.
Is it possible to make this ahead? The orzo will continue to absorb liquid. Reheat gently with a splash of extra stock or cream to restore the saucy consistency.
Can I use frozen spinach? Yes. Thaw and thoroughly squeeze out all excess water before adding it to the skillet to prevent a watery sauce.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a little added liquid to loosen the sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Orzo: Simmer just until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the final step.
- Crowding the Chicken: Sear chicken in batches if needed to ensure proper browning, not steaming.
- Adding Pesto Too Early: Stir in the pesto at the end to preserve its fresh, vibrant flavor and color.
- Using Cold Cream: Let the cream come to room temperature before adding to prevent curdling.
Conclusion
This 30-Minute Creamy Chicken Orzo is the ultimate weeknight solution, delivering restaurant-quality comfort with minimal cleanup. The combination of tender chicken, creamy pesto sauce, and vibrant vegetables creates a balanced, satisfying meal that feels special yet is incredibly straightforward to prepare. It’s a versatile recipe sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.