Creamy Chicken and Spinach Orzo Bake
Indulge in this creamy Chicken and Spinach Orzo Bake, a delightful one-dish meal that's perfect for any weeknight dinner. The tender pieces of chicken are simmered with orzo pasta in a rich broth, enhanced by the aromatic flavors of thyme, garlic, and onion. Finished with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a burst of flavor, this dish is not only filling but also incredibly satisfying. Pair it with a vibrant spinach salad or a mix of baby greens, and serve with warm, crusty bread for a complete meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Consider adding green peas or freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added nutrition, making this dish as visually appealing as it is delicious.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
2 (tablespoons)
onion
1 (small, finely chopped)
garlic
2 (cloves, finely chopped)
dried thyme
1/2 (teaspoon)
chicken broth
29 (ounces (two cans))
orzo pasta
2 (cups)
chicken breast
1 (lb, diced)
parmesan cheese
1/2 (cup, grated)
black pepper
to taste (freshly ground)
Instructions
1
In a deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
2
Add the finely chopped onion and garlic, cooking for about 2 to 3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3
Stir in the dried thyme, then pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
4
Once boiling, add the orzo and diced chicken, stirring well to combine.
5
Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, cover the skillet, and cook until the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is tender, about 20 minutes.
6
Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper.
7
Serve immediately, garnished with optional green peas or parsley for added color and freshness.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Chicken and Spinach Orzo Bake?
It is a comforting one-dish meal featuring tender chicken pieces and orzo pasta simmered in a rich broth with garlic, onion, and thyme, finished with parmesan cheese.
What are the main ingredients for this recipe?
The main ingredients include chicken breast, orzo pasta, chicken broth, parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, olive oil, and dried thyme.
How long does it take to cook the orzo?
Once the mixture is brought to a boil and reduced to a simmer, the orzo typically takes about 20 minutes to become tender and absorb the liquid.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, you can substitute diced chicken thighs for chicken breast if you prefer a juicier cut of meat.
Is this a one-pot meal?
Yes, this recipe is designed as a one-dish meal prepared in a deep skillet, making cleanup quick and easy.
What type of broth should I use?
The recipe calls for 29 ounces (two cans) of chicken broth to provide a savory base for the orzo and chicken.
How do I garnish the Creamy Chicken and Spinach Orzo Bake?
You can garnish the dish with green peas or freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Can I add extra vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Adding green peas or even stirring in fresh spinach at the end are great ways to add nutrition and color.
What are some suggested side dishes?
This dish pairs beautifully with a vibrant spinach salad, a mix of baby greens, or warm, crusty bread.
How do I prepare the chicken for this recipe?
The chicken breast should be diced into bite-sized pieces before being added to the boiling broth and orzo mixture.
What kind of cheese is used?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese, which is stirred in at the end for flavor and creaminess.
Can I use fresh thyme instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh thyme; generally, you would use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried.
Do I need to cook the orzo separately?
No, the orzo is cooked directly in the skillet with the chicken broth and other ingredients.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 3 to 4 days.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick weeknight dinner?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy dinner and 30-minute meal, making it perfect for busy schedules.
What size of onion should I use?
The recipe recommends using one small onion, finely chopped.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, you would need to omit the parmesan cheese or replace it with a dairy-free nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan alternative.
How many cloves of garlic are required?
The recipe calls for 2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped.
What is the cooking method for the onion and garlic?
They are sautéed in olive oil over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes until they are softened and fragrant.
Is orzo a type of rice?
No, orzo is a type of pasta that is shaped like large grains of rice.
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken; simply stir it in toward the end of the orzo's cooking time to warm it through.
What should the heat setting be for simmering?
After bringing the mixture to a boil, you should reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the skillet.
Can I use vegetable broth instead?
Yes, vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth, though it will slightly alter the flavor profile.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, the recipe is savory and mild, though you can add red pepper flakes if you prefer some heat.
How do I know when the dish is ready to serve?
The dish is ready when the liquid is fully absorbed, the orzo is tender, and the parmesan cheese has been stirred in.
Can I freeze this orzo bake?
While you can freeze it, pasta dishes like orzo may change texture upon thawing and reheating as the pasta continues to absorb moisture.
How much olive oil is needed?
The recipe requires 2 tablespoons of olive oil for sautéing.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
You can use other small pasta shapes, but cooking times and liquid requirements may vary compared to orzo.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, the creamy texture and mild flavors of chicken, pasta, and cheese generally make it very popular with children.
Does this recipe require a lot of equipment?
No, you primarily need a deep skillet with a lid, a knife for chopping, and a stirring spoon.