Description
Skillet Chicken with Orzo, Butternut Squash, and Spinach
Ingredients
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups butternut squash, cubed
2 cups fresh spinach
3 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh thyme (for garnish)
Directions
Sear the chicken: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Place chicken skin-side down and cook until golden brown, about 5–6 minutes. Flip and cook for 2–3 minutes more. Remove and set aside.
Cook the squash: Add the remaining olive oil and cubed butternut squash to the skillet. Sauté for 5 minutes until slightly tender.
Prepare the orzo: Stir in garlic and orzo, cooking for 1 minute. Add chicken broth, dried thyme, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
Combine: Nestle chicken thighs back into the skillet, skin-side up. Cover and simmer on medium-low heat for 15 minutes, until the orzo absorbs most of the liquid.
Finish with spinach: Add fresh spinach to the skillet, cover, and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until wilted.
Serve: Garnish with fresh thyme and serve hot.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 420 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect results every time. First, ensure your chicken thighs are patted dry with a paper towel; this is crucial for achieving a crisp, golden-brown sear. When searing, resist the urge to move the chicken for the first few minutes to allow the skin to properly caramelize. After removing the chicken, when sautéing the butternut squash, aim for a light browning on the edges to develop flavor. Toasting the orzo with the garlic for a full minute is key to a nutty, deep base. When simmering, keep the heat at a gentle bubble to ensure the orzo cooks evenly without burning on the bottom.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty skillet meal is a complete dinner on its own. For a lighter touch, serve it alongside a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette. To elevate the presentation, finish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any remaining savory broth in the skillet.
How-to Summary
In summary, this one-pan wonder involves searing seasoned chicken thighs until golden, then setting them aside. Sauté cubed butternut squash in the same skillet, followed by garlic and orzo. Add broth and thyme, then return the chicken to the pan to simmer until the orzo is tender and has absorbed the liquid. Finally, stir in fresh spinach until wilted, garnish, and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs?
Yes, but reduce the initial searing time by 1-2 minutes per side, as they cook faster. The final simmer time may also be slightly less.
What can I substitute for butternut squash?
Sweet potato or acorn squash are excellent alternatives. Adjust sautéing time slightly based on the hardness of the substitute.
My orzo is still hard after simmering. What happened?
The heat may have been too high, evaporating the broth before the pasta cooked. Next time, ensure a low simmer and add a splash of extra broth or water if needed, then cover again.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, as the orzo will continue to absorb liquid and may become mushy upon reheating. You can prep the ingredients (chop squash, mince garlic) in advance to save time.
Is there a way to make this recipe creamier?
Absolutely. Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk during the last 2 minutes of cooking with the spinach for a rich, creamy texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Skillet: Searing the chicken in a single, uncrowded layer ensures proper browning. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Not Toasting the Orzo: Skipping the step of cooking the orzo with the garlic and oil can result in a bland, starchy flavor.
- Insufficient Liquid: Stick to the broth measurement. If your skillet isn’t well-covered or the heat is too high, the liquid may evaporate too quickly, leading to undercooked pasta.
- Overcooking the Spinach: Add the spinach last and just wilt it. Cooking it too long makes it soggy and diminishes its vibrant color and nutrients.
Conclusion
This Skillet Chicken with Orzo, Butternut Squash, and Spinach is the epitome of a satisfying, balanced, and efficient one-pan meal. It masterfully combines protein, wholesome carbohydrates, and vegetables in a single dish, resulting in minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can consistently create a comforting, restaurant-quality dinner that is sure to become a regular in your weekly rotation. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!