Description
This creamy Boursin Orzo with Chicken is a comforting and flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender chicken cubes sautéed to perfection, combined with orzo pasta cooked in savory chicken broth and blended with rich Boursin garlic & herb cheese, Parmesan, and heavy cream. Enhanced with fresh baby spinach and garnished with parsley, this recipe offers a quick and satisfying dinner ideal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Pasta and Sauce
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 package (5.2 ounces) Boursin garlic & herb cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Add-ins and Garnish
- 2 cups baby spinach (optional)
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: In a bowl, season the cubed chicken breasts evenly with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, ensuring every piece is well-coated for maximum flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken cubes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and are cooked through, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Toast the Orzo: Using the same pan with the remaining oil and flavorful bits, add the orzo pasta. Toast it for about 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning and to enhance its nutty flavor.
- Simmer the Orzo: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook the orzo, stirring occasionally, for 8 to 10 minutes or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, ensuring a creamy consistency.
- Create the Sauce: Lower the heat to low, then stir in the Boursin garlic & herb cheese, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly until the cheese melts and forms a smooth, rich sauce that coats the orzo evenly.
- Combine and Wilt Spinach: Fold the cooked chicken and baby spinach (if using) into the creamy orzo mixture. Continue cooking over low heat until the spinach is wilted and tender, blending the flavors together.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish for a fresh, vibrant touch, and serve warm for a delicious meal.
Notes
- You can substitute rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation and convenience.
- For added vegetables and nutrition, try adding sautéed mushrooms or steamed broccoli to the dish.
