Chicken with orzo and spinach is a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious weeknight meal. This one-pan wonder combines tender chicken with fluffy orzo pasta, wilted spinach, and a burst of fresh lemon flavor. It’s a complete protein-packed meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or a healthy lunch. This recipe is easily adaptable to your preferences and what you have on hand, making it a versatile staple for your culinary repertoire.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe shines for several reasons:
- One-Pan Convenience: Minimal cleanup is a huge bonus, especially after a long day. Everything cooks together in a single pan, simplifying preparation and reducing dishwashing.
- Flavorful Simplicity: The combination of chicken, orzo, spinach, and lemon creates a harmonious blend of savory and bright flavors. It’s a sophisticated dish that's surprisingly easy to achieve.
- Nutritional Powerhouse: Packed with protein from the chicken, fiber from the spinach, and complex carbohydrates from the orzo, this dish is a nutritious and satisfying meal.
- Adaptable to Your Taste: Easily customize this recipe by adding different vegetables, herbs, or spices to suit your preferences.
Ingredients You'll Need
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 5 oz fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide
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Sauté the Chicken and Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine Orzo and Broth: Add the orzo to the skillet and stir to coat with the oil and onion mixture. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and then reduce heat to low.
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Simmer and Add Chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed.
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Stir in Spinach and Cheese: Stir in the spinach and Parmesan cheese. Cook until the spinach is wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
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Finish with Lemon Juice: Stir in the lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes. Add them along with the onion and garlic.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
While orzo is ideal for its small size and ability to absorb the broth, you can substitute other small pasta shapes like couscous or small shells. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Replace the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian version. You may also want to add some extra vegetables for added protein.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
This recipe is best served fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble the dish just before cooking. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is not inherently gluten-free, as orzo typically contains wheat. However, you can substitute gluten-free orzo or another gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Tips for the Best Chicken with Orzo and Spinach
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space for the chicken to brown properly. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
- Use fresh spinach: Fresh spinach wilts beautifully and adds a vibrant green color to the dish.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile.
- Serve with a side salad: A simple side salad adds freshness and complements the richness of the main dish.
This simple yet sophisticated chicken with orzo and spinach recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
