This Easy Chicken Orzo with Spinach and Pesto is a cozy meal that’s full of flavor! Tender chicken, fluffy orzo, and fresh spinach come together with a tasty pesto sauce that makes it irresistible.
I love how quick it is to make this dish—perfect for busy weeknights! Plus, you can’t go wrong with that bright green pesto bringing everything together. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their lean texture, but chicken thighs can also be great for added juiciness. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you could replace it with chickpeas or grilled tofu!
Orzo: This short, rice-shaped pasta is perfect for this dish! If you don’t have orzo, you can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even quinoa for a gluten-free twist.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a lovely color and nutrition. If you have kale or Swiss chard, they can be used instead. Just remember to cook them a bit longer until softened.
Pesto: While basil pesto is delicious, you could switch it for any other type, like sun-dried tomato or arugula pesto if you want a different flavor. Store-bought or homemade works perfectly!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Orzo?
Cooking orzo correctly ensures that it becomes fluffy and doesn’t turn mushy. Here are a few tips to follow:
- Ensure the broth is boiling before adding the orzo. This helps cook it evenly.
- Stir occasionally while it simmers to prevent sticking.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time. Start checking for doneness at around 8 minutes—al dente is best!
- If you notice your orzo getting too thick while cooking, you can add a splash more broth or water.
Perfectly cooked orzo blends beautifully with the pesto and enhances the dish’s overall creaminess. Enjoy creating this easy meal!
Easy Chicken Orzo with Spinach and Pesto
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 3 cups chicken broth (or stock)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/3 cup prepared basil pesto
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh oregano or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy chicken orzo dish will take about 20-25 minutes from start to finish. You will spend around 10-15 minutes prepping and cooking the chicken, and another 10 minutes to prepare the orzo and combine everything. It’s quick to whip up, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Begin by slicing your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a medium bowl, toss these pieces with the smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated. This adds flavor to your chicken!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through (no pink inside!). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Toast the Orzo:
In the same skillet, add the orzo. Toast it lightly for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it turns slightly golden. This step adds a nice nutty flavor to the orzo.
4. Add Broth and Simmer:
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet with the orzo. Bring it to a boil, then decrease the heat and let it simmer. Stir occasionally until the orzo is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed; this should take about 8-10 minutes.
5. Incorporate Vegetables and Pesto:
Add the chopped spinach and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir them in and cook for about 2 minutes, just until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes begin to soften. Then, mix in the basil pesto and grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring everything is evenly coated and creamy.
6. Combine and Finish:
Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet on top of the orzo mixture. Gently nestle it in, allowing everything to warm together for a couple of minutes. This helps the flavors meld.
7. Serve:
When ready, garnish your dish with fresh oregano or basil leaves if you like. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious one-pan Easy Chicken Orzo with Spinach and Pesto!
This colorful dish is bursting with flavor, and the creamy orzo pairs perfectly with the tender chicken and fresh vegetables. Enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover cooked chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred or chop the chicken and add it in at the end when you mix in the spinach and pesto. This way, the chicken stays tender without overcooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the orzo from drying out.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian! Simply replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder dish, feel free to omit the chili flakes or reduce the amount to your liking. For those who enjoy more spice, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when combining the vegetables and pesto.
