If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve found your new favorite with this Tasty Boursin Orzo Chicken Recipe. It’s the perfect marriage of tender chicken, creamy Boursin cheese, and delicate orzo pasta, all coming together in one pan for an effortless, satisfying meal. This recipe balances comforting textures and bright flavors with a hint of garlic and herbs, making it a wonderful option for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s become a beloved classic in so many kitchens.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays an important role, creating layers of flavor and texture that transform simple pantry staples into a memorable meal. These ingredients are straightforward but pack a punch together, ensuring every bite is deliciously balanced and inviting.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Choose your favorite cut for tender, juicy chicken that soaks up the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a rich, smooth base for cooking the chicken to golden perfection.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Delivers a subtle savory boost without overpowering the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasons everything perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick and depth to the seasoning.
- 1 cup orzo pasta: This tiny pasta cooks up silky and tender, acting as the perfect canvas for the creamy sauce.
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Builds flavor while gently cooking the orzo to tender goodness.
- 1/2 cup milk or cream: Brings richness and creamy texture to the sauce.
- 1 (5.2-ounce) package Boursin cheese (Garlic & Fine Herbs): The star of the show, this cheese melts into a luxuriously creamy base with aromatic herbs.
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach: Adds a fresh, vibrant touch and a pop of color to the dish.
- Optional: juice of 1/2 lemon: Brightens the flavors with a lively citrus note.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Offers a lovely herbal finish and visual appeal.
How to Make Tasty Boursin Orzo Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken evenly with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This simple seasoning ensures that every bite of your chicken is flavorful and perfectly seasoned, setting the stage for the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add your chicken. Cook each side for about 5 to 6 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. When the internal temperature reaches 165°F, you know it’s ready. Remove the chicken from the skillet and allow it to rest while you prepare the orzo.
Step 3: Toast and Cook the Orzo
In the same skillet, toss in the orzo pasta and toast it for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly. This step adds a toasty depth to the pasta that’s easy to miss but makes a big difference. Then, pour in the chicken broth and milk, scraping up those lovely browned bits from the pan. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer gently for about 8 to 10 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 4: Stir in the Boursin Cheese and Spinach
Time to melt in the magic! Stir the Boursin cheese into the orzo mixture until it’s creamy and velvety. Toss in the fresh baby spinach and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until just wilted. This step ensures the dish has layers of creamy richness balanced by the brightness and subtle earthiness of spinach.
Step 5: Combine Chicken with Orzo Mixture
Slice or dice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet with your creamy orzo and spinach. Stir everything together gently and heat through so the flavors mingle beautifully. This final combination makes each mouthful comforting and packed with texture.
Step 6: Add Lemon Juice and Garnish
Finish your Tasty Boursin Orzo Chicken Recipe with a fresh squeeze of lemon juice for a flash of brightness and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. These final touches lift the dish visually and flavor-wise, adding a zesty and herbal note that makes every bite delightful.
How to Serve Tasty Boursin Orzo Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic choice for garnish, adding a pop of green and a fresh herbal scent. For an extra burst of flavor, lemon zest or a few red pepper flakes can give your dish a vibrant twist that complements the creamy orzo perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dish is rich and satisfying on its own, but if you’re eager to round out the meal, consider a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables. Their crunch and acidity provide a fantastic contrast, making your meal even more enjoyable.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant touch, serve the orzo chicken in shallow bowls to showcase its creamy texture and vibrant colors. Adding a lemon wedge on the side invites guests to customize the brightness. If you want to impress at a casual dinner, try plating it alongside grilled asparagus or garlic bread for a cozy, inviting presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Tasty Boursin Orzo Chicken Recipe keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the creamy texture and freshness of the spinach and herbs.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but remember that the texture of spinach may change slightly when thawed. Store in freezer-safe containers and enjoy within 2 months for the best flavor. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of milk or broth during reheating helps maintain that creamy consistency you love in the original Tasty Boursin Orzo Chicken Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor, making the dish even more tender and delicious.
What can I substitute for Boursin cheese?
If Boursin isn’t available, a soft cream cheese mixed with garlic powder and fresh herbs can be a tasty alternative, though the distinct flavor of Boursin is hard to replicate exactly.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping the orzo with a gluten-free pasta or even quinoa, you can enjoy this dish without gluten while keeping its comforting qualities.
Can I add other vegetables?
For sure! Kale, peas, or mushrooms are great additions that blend well into the creamy orzo and chicken, bringing extra nutrients and texture.
How do I make this dish creamier?
Adding a splash of heavy cream along with the Boursin cheese or stirring in a little grated Parmesan can amplify the creaminess beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Diving into this Tasty Boursin Orzo Chicken Recipe is like inviting a new favorite meal into your home—one that’s simple, indulgent, and full of heartwarming flavor. It’s a dish that will quickly become a go-to whenever you want something creamy, comforting, and easy to make. Give it a try and watch how it brightens up your dinner table and your weeknight routine!
Print
Tasty Boursin Orzo Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This Tasty Boursin Orzo Chicken is a creamy and comforting one-pan dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked to perfection, toasted orzo pasta, fresh spinach, and rich Boursin cheese. The combination of garlic and fine herbs in the Boursin cheese adds a flavorful twist to this easy weeknight dinner, making it both kid-friendly and satisfying. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect main course for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Orzo and Sauce
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk or cream
- 1 (5.2-ounce) package Boursin cheese (Garlic & Fine Herbs)
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
Optional Garnish
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts or thighs with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to evenly coat all sides, enhancing the flavor of the meat.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Toast the Orzo: In the same skillet, add the orzo pasta and toast it for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to bring out a nutty flavor.
- Simmer Orzo and Liquids: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and milk, scraping up any browned bits from the pan for added flavor. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 8–10 minutes. Stir occasionally until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Add Boursin Cheese and Spinach: Stir in the Boursin cheese until it melts and forms a creamy sauce. Then add fresh baby spinach and cook for another 1–2 minutes, just until the spinach wilts.
- Combine Chicken and Orzo: Slice or dice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet. Stir the chicken into the creamy orzo mixture and heat everything through for a couple of minutes to meld the flavors.
- Finish and Serve: Finish the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- You can swap spinach for kale or peas based on your preference or what you have on hand.
- For extra richness, add a splash of cream along with the Boursin cheese to the orzo.
- This dish reheats well and makes an excellent lunch the next day.
