This Easy Chicken Orzo is a cheerful mix of tender chicken, orzo pasta, fresh spinach, and juicy tomatoes all tossed together with tasty pesto. It’s a bowl full of happiness!
Making this dish is simple—just cook everything in one pot! I love how the colors pop and the flavors shine. Perfect for busy nights when you want something yummy without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Tenders: Boneless skinless chicken breast tenders are perfect because they cook quickly. If you’re looking for a substitute, diced chicken thighs or pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can work well too!
Orzo Pasta: Orzo gives a nice, comforting texture to this dish. If you don’t have orzo, you could use small pasta shapes like ditalini or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach adds color and nutrients. If fresh spinach isn’t available, kale or frozen spinach (thawed and drained) could be used instead.
Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are juicy and sweet. You can swap them for diced canned tomatoes or regular tomatoes chopped into small pieces if that’s what you have.
Pesto: Using basil pesto provides wonderful flavor. If you don’t have it, try a sun-dried tomato pesto or make your own with herbs and nuts.
How Do You Cook the Chicken to Keep It Juicy?
Cooking chicken properly can be tricky, but it’s key to keeping it juicy! Here are some tips:
- Season Well: Before cooking, season your chicken with spices to enhance the flavor.
- High Heat: Searing the chicken on medium-high heat creates a nice golden crust while sealing in juices.
- Don’t Overcook: Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes until a meat thermometer reads 165°F (75°C).
- Rest the Chicken: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy!
Easy Chicken Orzo with Spinach, Tomatoes & Pesto
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless skinless chicken breast tenders
- 1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
For the Orzo Mix:
- 3/4 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup half-and-half or whole milk
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 tbsp basil pesto
For Serving:
- Optional: fresh basil or oregano for garnish
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25-30 minutes in total—10 minutes for prep and about 15-20 minutes for cooking. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight and delicious enough for a casual get-together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, season the chicken tenders with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure they’re evenly coated with spices for maximum flavor!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the seasoned chicken tenders to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Toast the Orzo:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and then the orzo pasta. Stir it around and toast the orzo for about 2 minutes until it begins to turn a light golden color. This adds a nice nutty flavor!
4. Add the Liquids:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and half-and-half (or whole milk). Stir the mixture, then bring it to a simmer. Lower the heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, for around 8-10 minutes, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
5. Mix in the Veggies:
Add the baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, and pesto to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes start to soften.
6. Combine Chicken and Orzo:
Return the cooked chicken tenders to the skillet, nestling them into the orzo mixture. Heat through for another minute or two, ensuring everything is warm and well combined.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste your dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. This is your chance to make it just right!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or oregano and sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top if you like. Enjoy your colorful, tasty meal!
This one-skillet delicious meal combines tenderly seasoned chicken with creamy orzo, fresh spinach, bright cherry tomatoes, and herbaceous pesto for a quick and colorful dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute the Chicken for Another Protein?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different protein, you can use turkey breast, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the protein you choose to ensure it’s cooked through.
Can I Use Another Type of Pasta?
Yes, if you don’t have orzo on hand, you can substitute it with small pasta shapes like ditalini, couscous, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option. Just keep an eye on the cooking times, as they may vary.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to prevent the orzo from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Definitely! You can replace the chicken with a mix of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. To maintain the creaminess, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and leave out the chicken.
