Description
Creamy Chicken Orzo with Butternut Squash and Spinach
This comforting and well-balanced dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Featuring tender chicken thighs, roasted butternut squash, and fresh spinach, all combined with creamy orzo, this recipe brings together protein, veggies, and carbs in a beautiful harmony. The smoked paprika and Italian seasoning add a rich, aromatic touch, making this simple dish taste like it’s straight from a fancy restaurant. Perfect for Fall and Winter, it’s bound to become a favorite family dinner!
12 oz butternut squash, cubed
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp fresh thyme
1.5 lb chicken thighs
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 cup orzo
5 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken stock
5 oz spinach
½ cup heavy cream
Salt & pepper
Directions:
1. Roast squash at 400°F for 20-30 mins.
2. Sear chicken thighs with seasonings.
3. Cook orzo with garlic & chicken stock.
4. Add spinach & cream, then combine with squash & chicken.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Kcal: 838
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, and half of the fresh thyme. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-30 minutes, until tender and caramelized at the edges.
2. While the squash roasts, pat the chicken thighs dry and season generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until deeply golden. Remove to a plate; it will finish cooking later.
3. In the same pot, add the orzo and minced garlic. Toast for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant. Pour in the chicken stock, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and spinach, allowing the spinach to wilt into the creamy orzo. Add the roasted squash and remaining thyme. Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the pot, cover, and let everything heat through for 3-5 minutes to finish cooking the chicken. Season the entire dish with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy orzo directly from the skillet for a rustic family-style meal. A simple side salad with a sharp vinaigrette helps cut through the richness. For a fresh garnish, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, extra thyme, or a handful of toasted pine nuts. Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any remaining creamy sauce.
How-to Summary
This one-pan meal involves roasting squash, searing seasoned chicken thighs, then cooking orzo in garlic and stock in the same pot. Finish by stirring in cream and spinach, then combining with the roasted squash and chicken for a final simmer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, but be cautious. Chicken breasts cook faster and can dry out. Use boneless, skinless breasts and reduce the initial searing time to 3-4 minutes per side.
How can I make this dish vegetarian? Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add a can of drained white beans or chickpeas when you add the spinach for plant-based protein.
My orzo is too dry/too wet. What happened? Orzo absorption can vary. If it’s too dry, stir in a splash of extra broth or cream. If too wet, simply simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the sauce.
Can I prepare any components ahead? Absolutely. Roast the butternut squash up to 2 days in advance. You can also measure out your seasonings and chop garlic ahead of time to streamline weeknight cooking.
What can I substitute for heavy cream? For a lighter option, full-fat coconut milk or half-and-half will work, though the sauce will be less rich. Avoid milk, as it may curdle.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcrowding the pan when searing the chicken, as this steams instead of browns the meat. Do not skip toasting the orzo with the garlic; this step builds crucial flavor. Finally, resist the urge to use pre-minced jarred garlic, as fresh garlic provides a far superior taste in this simple dish.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken Orzo with Butternut Squash and Spinach is the epitome of a satisfying, one-pan dinner. It masterfully combines protein, vegetables, and carbs with minimal cleanup. The method of building layers of flavor—from roasting the squash to searing the chicken and toasting the orzo—transforms basic ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal. Give this recipe a try for a reliably delicious and comforting dinner that is sure to earn a permanent spot in your rotation.