Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo with Grilled Chicken Recipe
Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo with Grilled Chicken is a rich and flavorful one-pan dish featuring tender orzo pasta cooked to perfection and enveloped in a luscious creamy spinach and Parmesan sauce, topped with juicy, herb-seasoned grilled chicken breasts. This comforting and elegant meal comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or impressive dinners.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
Scale
Orzo and Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Chicken
- 2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced (seasoned with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: In a medium pot, bring water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-9 minutes. Drain the orzo and set aside.
- Sauté the Spinach: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add onion powder, salt, and pepper, and let simmer for approximately 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked orzo to the creamy spinach sauce and stir well to evenly coat the pasta. Arrange sliced grilled chicken breasts on top of the creamy orzo.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve the dish warm for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Frozen spinach can be used if thawed and drained thoroughly.
- Add extra vegetables like cherry tomatoes or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
- Substitute grilled chicken with shrimp, turkey, or tofu for variety or dietary preferences.
- Fresh herbs such as basil or thyme enhance the aromatic profile of the dish.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat on stovetop or microwave.
Keywords: Creamy Orzo, Spinach Pasta, Parmesan Orzo, Grilled Chicken, One Pan Dinner, Quick Dinner Recipe, Comfort Food
