This Easy Chicken Orzo with Spinach and Pesto is a quick meal packed with flavor! Tender chicken, soft orzo, fresh spinach, and creamy pesto come together for a tasty dish.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I often use chicken tenders for quick cooking, but boneless chicken breast strips work just as well. If you need a substitute, you could use cooked chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian option!
Orzo: This small pasta is perfect for this dish. If you can’t find orzo, try other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even quinoa if you’re looking for a gluten-free option.
Pesto: I usually opt for basil pesto, but any kind—like sun-dried tomato or spinach pesto—would add a unique twist. You can also make your own using fresh herbs, nuts, garlic, and oil.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is my go-to since it wilts beautifully. If you don’t have fresh, you can use frozen spinach but ensure to thaw and drain it first to remove excess water.
How Can I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Orzo?
Cooking orzo well is essential for a nice texture! Here’s how I do it:
- Toast the orzo in olive oil until it turns slightly golden. This adds a nice nuttiness!
- When adding broth, make sure it’s hot to speed up cooking.
- Keep it covered while it simmers to lock in moisture.
- Check it a minute or two early, as overcooked orzo will become mushy.
Following these tips will ensure your orzo is perfectly al dente, making this dish truly delightful!
Easy Chicken Orzo with Spinach and Pesto
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chicken:
- 1 pound chicken tenders or boneless chicken breast strips
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (plus extra fresh oregano for garnish if available)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- For the Dish:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 cup orzo pasta (uncooked)
- 3 cups chicken broth (or stock)
- 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 3 tablespoons pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and 20 minutes cooking, so it’s efficient and flavorful!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if you want a kick!), salt, and black pepper. This blend will bring so much flavor to the chicken!
2. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken tenders and rub the spice mixture all over them, making sure they are evenly coated. This step adds tons of flavor!
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until beautifully browned and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside for now.
4. Toast the Orzo:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and toss in the uncooked orzo. Stir it constantly for about 1–2 minutes until it’s lightly toasted—this brings out a wonderful nutty flavor!
5. Cook the Orzo:
Now, pour in the chicken broth, bringing it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to 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. Check occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick!
6. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Add the halved tomatoes and fresh spinach into the skillet. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, until the spinach is wilted and everything looks colorful and fresh!
7. Combine with Chicken:
Carefully return the cooked chicken to the skillet, placing it nicely among the orzo and vegetables. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
8. Stir in Pesto:
Pour in the pesto sauce and gently stir everything together until well coated and heated through. The pesto adds such a creamy, rich flavor!
9. Taste and Adjust:
Finally, give your dish a taste! If needed, add more salt and pepper to suit your preference.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your chicken orzo hot, garnished with any extra fresh oregano or basil you have around, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if that’s your thing. Enjoy this comforting and colorful meal!
This easy chicken orzo with spinach and pesto is sure to become a favorite at your table! Happy cooking! 🍽️
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even cooked sausage. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly—shrimp will cook quickly, while sausage may need to be pre-cooked before adding it to the dish.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, you can replace the chicken with chickpeas or lentils for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it flavorful and delicious!
Is There a Way to Make This Recipe Creamier?
If you’re looking for extra creaminess, consider stirring in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese along with the pesto. It will create a luscious, creamy sauce that coats the orzo beautifully!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a touch of broth to keep the orzo moist, or use the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
