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
Scale
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.
