Skillet Creamy Chicken Spinach Orzo (Printer View)

Creamy chicken and spinach paired with orzo for a hearty one-pan dinner.

# Components:

→ Main Components

01 - 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
02 - 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
03 - 2 cups baby spinach, washed and trimmed
04 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
05 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
07 - 3/4 cup heavy cream
08 - 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
09 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
10 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
11 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
12 - 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

# Method:

01 - Pat chicken breasts dry and season with salt and black pepper on both sides.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
03 - Add chopped onion to the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened, then stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
04 - Pour uncooked orzo into skillet and toast lightly, stirring continuously for 1 minute. Add chicken broth and mix well. Simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until orzo is just tender and most liquid is absorbed, about 8–10 minutes.
05 - Stir in heavy cream, grated parmesan cheese, and baby spinach. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until spinach wilts and mixture is creamy, about 2–3 minutes.
06 - Return chicken breasts to skillet, nestling them into orzo, and sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes if using. Simmer gently for 2 minutes to blend flavors, then remove from heat.
07 - Slice chicken breasts and serve atop creamy spinach orzo, garnished with additional parmesan if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in about thirty minutes cleanup is easy because everything cooks in the same skillet
  • Uses common ingredients you likely have on hand ideal for both family dinners and casual gatherings
  • Feels indulgent yet packs in fresh greens
02 -
  • Rich in protein and antioxidants comforting one-pan meal good for quick lunches or dinner leftovers reheats surprisingly well maintained creaminess overnight
  • Orzo is my secret superstar here it cooks up tender in the sauce and helps bind all the flavors together
03 -
  • Always toast the orzo with the aromatics before adding liquids it makes a huge difference in flavor
  • Do not rush wilting the spinach or you might end up with watery sauce instead of creamy one
  • Double the recipe for easy meal prep and portion leftovers before chilling for perfect lunches all week

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