This creamy chicken orzo is a warm hug in a bowl! Soft orzo pasta shines with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and juicy cherry tomatoes, making every bite a perfect mix of flavors.
Honestly, who can resist that creamy goodness? It feels like comfort food without all the fuss. I whip this up when I want something quick and satisfying after a long day! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like to use chicken tenders for their tenderness and quick cooking time. You can easily substitute with chicken breasts if you prefer. For a lighter option, sauté some shrimp instead!
Orzo: This tiny pasta is perfect for this dish because it soaks up flavor well. If you don’t have orzo, you could use any small pasta like ditalini or even rice, though cooking times will vary.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is quick-cooking and adds a nice color. If you need a substitution, kale or Swiss chard can work; just chop them finely and cook a little longer until soft.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and a pop of color. Grape tomatoes or larger tomatoes chopped into chunks can also be used. Canned diced tomatoes are a great option if fresh isn’t available.
Heavy Cream: I recommend heavy cream for a rich sauce, but you can use half-and-half or even a plant-based cream for a lighter or dairy-free version. Just keep the flavor balance in mind!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken just right can be tricky, but with these steps, you’ll have juicy, flavorful chicken every time!
- Start with a hot skillet; the olive oil should shimmer when ready.
- Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Don’t rush it—let the chicken sear to get that nice golden color, and avoid flipping too often!
- After cooking, let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before slicing. This helps keep it moist.
With these tips and ingredient swaps, you’re all set to make a delicious creamy chicken orzo!
Creamy Chicken Orzo with Spinach and Cherry Tomatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken tenders or breasts, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful creamy chicken orzo dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping your ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Take the chicken tenders and coat them evenly on all sides with this spice mixture, ensuring full flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Afterward, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
Using the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion. SautĂ© for about 3 minutes until it turns translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant and flavorful.
4. Add the Orzo:
Now, sprinkle in the orzo pasta into the skillet, stirring it around to lightly toast for 1-2 minutes. This helps give the pasta an extra flavor boost!
5. Cook the Orzo:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
6. Incorporate the Veggies:
Stir in the chopped spinach and halved cherry tomatoes, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften just a little.
7. Make it Creamy:
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until you have a beautifully creamy sauce that envelops everything.
8. Combine Everything:
Carefully nestle the cooked chicken tenders back into the skillet, spooning some of that lovely sauce over them. Let everything warm through for about 2-3 minutes—this helps marry all those delicious flavors.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting meal!
This creamy chicken orzo is sure to become a family favorite—enjoy the blend of flavors and make sure to savor every bite! 🍽️
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Yes! While orzo is ideal for this dish, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even small shells. Just remember that cooking times may vary, so check the package for guidance!
Can I Prep This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can season the chicken and chop the veggies a day in advance. If you cook the dish ahead of time, simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stove over low heat and add a splash of broth to refresh the sauce!
How Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
To make this dish dairy-free, simply swap out the heavy cream for a plant-based cream or coconut milk. Use nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative to replace the Parmesan cheese for added flavor!
What Should I Serve with Creamy Chicken Orzo?
This dish is hearty enough to serve alone, but it pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for added color and nutrients. You could also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce!
