Looking for a quick, delicious meal that requires minimal cleanup? This creamy chicken orzo with mushrooms and spinach is just the ticket. It’s a hearty dish that comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or those lazy days when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Imagine tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant spinach all mingling together in a luscious, creamy sauce. This recipe is an easy way to impress your family or friends without feeling like you’ve spent all day cooking.
Quick and Comforting One-Pan Meal
This creamy chicken orzo is a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
The orzo pasta absorbs the rich sauce, while the chicken remains juicy and tender, creating a satisfying experience with each bite.
Mushrooms add an earthy depth, and the spinach contributes a fresh contrast that completes the dish beautifully.
Simple Preparation Process
To start, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper, allowing it to brown and cook through for about 5-7 minutes.
Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside, creating a base for the next steps.
Cooking the Vegetables
Using the same skillet, sauté chopped onions and sliced mushrooms until softened, typically around 3-4 minutes.
Introducing minced garlic at this stage enhances the aroma, cooking it for an additional minute until fragrant.
This step sets the stage for the orzo to absorb all the delightful flavors.
Incorporating the Orzo
Next, stir in the orzo along with chicken broth.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes.
During this time, give it an occasional stir, ensuring the orzo becomes tender and well-cooked.
The Creamy Element
Once the orzo has reached the desired tenderness, it’s time to stir in the heavy cream and fresh spinach.
Cook until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens slightly, which takes about 2-3 minutes.
This step transforms the dish into a creamy delight, making it even more inviting.
Final Touches and Serving
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing everything together to combine the flavors.
Adjust the seasoning if necessary, making sure every element sings.
Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese, creating an appealing presentation that enhances the rustic charm of your meal.
Quick and Comforting One-Pan Meal
This creamy chicken orzo is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The orzo pasta absorbs the creamy sauce while the chicken remains juicy and tender, making each bite satisfying. The mushrooms add an earthy depth, and the spinach offers a fresh contrast that rounds out the dish beautifully.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 8 ounces orzo pasta
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Cook Vegetables: In the same skillet, add chopped onions and sliced mushrooms. Sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Orzo and Broth: Stir in the orzo and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
- Stir in Cream and Spinach: Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and fresh spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing everything together. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 40g