Description
A hearty and flavorful Chicken Orzo recipe that combines tender chicken, toasted orzo pasta, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs cooked together in a single skillet for a quick and satisfying meal, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup spinach, chopped
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Pantry Items and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for cooking the chicken.
- Cook chicken: Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then cook them in the hot oil for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Toast orzo: In the same skillet, add 1 cup of orzo pasta and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning and to enhance the flavor.
- Simmer orzo: Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 8-10 minutes until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Add remaining ingredients: Stir in the cooked chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped spinach, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes if using.
- Cook until spinach wilts: Continue cooking and stirring for 2-3 minutes until the spinach has wilted and the ingredients are well combined.
- Season and garnish: Taste the dish and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired and serve the Chicken Orzo warm.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
- Red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted for desired spiciness.
- Using fresh herbs like basil enhances the flavor, but dried herbs can also be used in a pinch.
- For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of cream or sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
