This orzo pasta salad with chicken and spinach is a delicious and healthy meal perfect for a busy weeknight. It's packed with flavor, easy to customize, and comes together quickly. This recipe is designed to be both delicious and search-engine friendly, answering common questions people have about this dish.
What is Orzo?
Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta. Its diminutive size cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully, making it an ideal base for this recipe. Unlike larger pasta shapes, orzo offers a delicate texture that complements the spinach and chicken without overpowering them. Its subtle flavor allows the other ingredients to shine.
How to Make Orzo Spinach Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide
This recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients to create a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Yields: 4 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Spinach and Orzo: Stir in the thawed and squeezed spinach and orzo. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Simmer: Pour in chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until orzo is cooked through and liquid is absorbed.
- Combine and Season: Stir in the cooked chicken, feta cheese (if using), Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Serve: Serve warm, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While feta and Parmesan are classic choices, you can easily experiment with other cheeses. Consider using:
- Asiago: Adds a nutty and slightly sharp flavor.
- Pecorino Romano: Offers a strong, salty taste.
- Goat cheese: Provides a tangy and creamy element.
The best cheese will depend on your personal preferences. Feel free to try different combinations to find your favorite!
Is This Recipe Healthy?
Yes, this orzo spinach chicken recipe is a relatively healthy option. Chicken is a lean protein source, spinach is packed with vitamins and minerals, and orzo provides carbohydrates for energy. However, the overall healthiness depends on the amount of cheese and oil used. You can reduce the fat content by using less oil and opting for a lower-fat cheese.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Make the orzo spinach chicken according to the recipe instructions and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. The flavors will actually deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day.
What to Serve with Orzo Spinach Chicken?
This dish stands well on its own, but you can pair it with other sides to create a complete meal. Consider serving it with:
- A simple green salad
- Roasted vegetables (broccoli, carrots, zucchini)
- Crusty bread for dipping
This orzo spinach chicken recipe is a versatile and flavorful meal that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
