Description
Savor the rich flavors of cheesy chicken orzo, where succulent chicken meets creamy cheeses and fresh spinach, all beautifully blended with pasta for a comforting dish.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1⁄2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season them with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
3. Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for 2 minutes to slightly toast the orzo, stirring frequently.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and milk, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet along with the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and coat the orzo and chicken evenly.
6. Mix in the Italian seasoning and chopped spinach, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted.
7. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary.
8. Remove the skillet from the heat, and let the dish sit for a couple of minutes to thicken slightly before serving.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
Orzo can be substituted with rice or quinoa for a different texture.
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella, gouda, or fontina for variety.
Adding sun-dried tomatoes can add a sweet and tangy flavor to the dish.
You can add cooked mushrooms or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp, green salad on the side.