This chicken orzo dish is quick and tasty! It mixes tender chicken, fluffy orzo pasta, fresh spinach, and a burst of pesto flavor. Perfect for dinner when you’re short on time!
I love how colorful this meal looks on the plate. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, so I spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying my food. Win-win! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using chicken tenders as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using sautéed shrimp or cubed tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Orzo Pasta: This small pasta is perfect for absorbing flavors. If you’re out of orzo, you can substitute with quinoa or even rice, though cooking times may vary slightly.
Pesto: Fresh basil pesto gives excellent flavor, but if you don’t have it, try a sun-dried tomato pesto or even a vegan option if you’re plant-based. Homemade is great, but store-bought saves time!
Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts nicely, but feel free to swap in kale or Swiss chard. Just chop them smaller to ensure even cooking.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
Getting juicy chicken starts with proper seasoning and cooking time. Here’s what to do:
- Season the chicken well with spices before cooking.
- Cook in a hot skillet with oil to seal in juices, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Don’t overcook! Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F for safe eating.
This method keeps your chicken tender and bursting with flavor, making your dish all the more enjoyable!
Easy Chicken Orzo with Spinach and Pesto
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
For the Orzo:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 3 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
For the Finishing Touches:
- 1/4 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
- Fresh oregano or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal comes together in about 30 minutes. With just 10 minutes for prep and around 20 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a warm and hearty dish ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, combine the chicken strips with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is coated well with the spices for maximum flavor.
2. Brown the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until browned and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Toast the Orzo:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the orzo pasta. Toss to coat and toast the orzo lightly for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently. This adds flavor to the pasta!
4. Cook the Orzo:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
5. Add the Veggies:
Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh spinach, and basil pesto into the cooked orzo mixture. Cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the spinach has wilted and the tomatoes are warm.
6. Combine Chicken and Orzo:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, placing it on top of the orzo mixture. Let everything cook together for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Optionally sprinkle the dish with grated Parmesan cheese and a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. Garnish with fresh oregano or basil leaves before serving.
8. Enjoy:
Serve warm and dig into this delightful, hearty meal. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
This dish combines creamy orzo with flavorful pesto, tender chicken, fresh spinach, and juicy cherry tomatoes, making it a comforting and quick meal all in one pan. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! While chicken tenders or breasts work best for this recipe due to their quick cooking time, you can also use chicken thighs if you prefer. Just be aware that they may take a bit longer to cook through.
What If I Don’t Have Orzo Pasta?
No worries! You can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes, like ditalini or acini di pepe. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, quinoa is a great choice as well. Just keep an eye on the cooking times as they may vary slightly.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and combine them just before serving to keep everything fresh and delicious!
