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Creamy Orzo with Chicken and Spinach


  • Author: Jennifer
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Creamy Orzo with Chicken and Spinach is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and al dente orzo pasta in a rich, velvety sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delicious meal that’s sure to delight everyone at the table. With its creamy texture and aromatic flavors, it’s a dish you’ll want to make time and again.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
  • 2 cups baby spinach
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare your ingredients: Chop chicken into bite-sized pieces and mince garlic.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once shimmering, add chicken; season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown (6-8 minutes).
  3. Add minced garlic and spinach to the skillet. Sauté until fragrant and spinach wilts (1-2 minutes).
  4. Pour in chicken broth; bring to a boil. Stir in orzo pasta; reduce heat and simmer until tender (10-12 minutes).
  5. Lower heat further; stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until combined (3-5 minutes).
  6. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 820mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 44g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: Feel free to substitute spinach with kale or Swiss chard for variety. Experiment with different cheeses like feta or cheddar for unique flavors. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth.