Easy Chicken Orzo with Spinach and Pesto

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken: I like using chicken tenderloins for their tenderness. You can easily swap them for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try grilled tofu for a vegetarian twist!

Orzo: This tiny pasta is a perfect match! If you can’t find orzo, you can use other small pastas like couscous, quinoa, or even rice. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as they can vary.

Spinach: Fresh baby spinach is the go-to here, but feel free to use kale or Swiss chard instead. If you’re using frozen spinach, just make sure to thaw and drain it well first!

Pesto: Homemade pesto is lovely, but store-bought saves time. If you need a nut-free alternative, blend basil with nutritional yeast and olive oil for a simple version.

Cherry Tomatoes: I use cherry tomatoes for their sweetness. Regular tomatoes diced up work too, just add them earlier in the process to let them soften.

How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?

Cooking chicken properly is crucial for tenderness. Here’s how to ensure it turns out juicy and delicious:

• Preheat your skillet before adding the chicken; a hot pan helps with browning.
• Don’t crowd the pan. Work in batches if needed, so each piece gets cooked evenly.
• Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side without moving it too much; this helps it sear nicely.
• Check for doneness using a meat thermometer—165°F (75°C) is the safe spot.

These tips will help you enjoy perfectly cooked chicken every time!

Easy Chicken Orzo with Spinach and Pesto

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Main Dish:

• 1 lb (450 g) chicken tenderloins or boneless chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 cup water
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

For the Flavors:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh herbs (basil or oregano) for garnish
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat

Time Needed:

This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping your ingredients, and the cooking process will take the rest. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

Start by seasoning your chicken. In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and half of the minced garlic. This will give the chicken lots of flavor. Set the bowl aside while you finish your prep.

2. Cook the Chicken:

Next, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pan, cooking them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You want them to be nicely browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

3. Sauté Garlic and Orzo:

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil along with the leftover minced garlic. Sauté everything for about 30 seconds until it smells wonderful. Then, add the orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring it for 1-2 minutes so it toasts lightly. This adds a lovely depth of flavor!

4. Add Liquids and Cook Orzo:

Now it’s time to add some liquid! Pour in the chicken broth and the water, stirring to combine. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid has mostly absorbed.

5. Add Spinach and Tomatoes:

After the orzo is cooked, stir in the fresh baby spinach and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften just a bit. It’s looking colorful already!

6. Incorporate Pesto and Chicken:

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the pesto into the skillet, stirring well so everything is nicely coated. Return the cooked chicken pieces to the pan, nestling them into the orzo mixture. Heat everything through for about 2 more minutes.

7. Finish and Serve:

Take a moment to taste your creation and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if you like a little kick. Garnish with fresh herbs, and then serve warm directly from the skillet. Enjoy your flavorful, creamy, and satisfying Easy Chicken Orzo with Spinach and Pesto!

FAQ for Easy Chicken Orzo with Spinach and Pesto

Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?

Absolutely! If you can’t find orzo, you can substitute with other small pastas like couscous, quinoa, or even ditalini. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose, as it may vary slightly.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the dish and prevent it from drying out!

Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the chicken with chickpeas, tofu, or even some roasted vegetables for a hearty vegetarian option. You can still use the same orzo and add plenty of spinach and your choice of veggies!

What Can I Serve with This Dish?

This dish is quite filling on its own, but you can serve it with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. For a lighter option, consider pairing it with steamed or roasted vegetables!