One Pot Chicken and Spinach Orzo

Chicken and Spinach Orzo is a delicious and nutritious dish that suits both busy weeknights and family gatherings. This pasta recipe is full of flavor and packed with essential nutrients, making it a perfect choice for parents who want to serve healthy meals. In this guide, you’ll discover how to make this tasty recipe, along with tips to enhance its flavors, ensure balanced nutrition, and explore exciting variations.

Ingredients You'll Need

To prepare Chicken and Spinach Orzo, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of chicken breast, diced

• 1 cup of orzo pasta

• 2 cups of fresh spinach, roughly chopped

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves of garlic, minced

• 2 cups of chicken broth

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Parmesan cheese, for garnishing

  
  

These ingredients blend together to create a comforting dish that family members of all ages will enjoy.

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Sautéing the Chicken

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast, seasoning it with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked all the way through. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. A well-cooked chicken breast provides about 26 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving, contributing significantly to your meal's nutritional value.

Step 2: Adding Aromatics

Once the chicken is cooked, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion turns translucent and fragrant. This step elevates the flavor profile, adding depth and richness to the final dish.

Step 3: Cooking the Orzo

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, stir in the orzo pasta. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo becomes tender. Stir occasionally to avoid any clumping. Did you know that orzo pasta cooks faster than many other types of pasta?

Step 4: Incorporating Spinach

When the orzo is cooked to your liking, fold in the chopped spinach. Allow it to cook for an additional minute or two, just until the spinach wilts. This not only enhances the appearance with vibrant green color but also introduces essential vitamins and minerals. One cup of cooked spinach contains about 6% of the daily recommended iron intake, important for overall health.

Step 5: Final Touches

After you incorporate the spinach, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or any cheese you prefer. Adding cheese not only enhances flavor but provides creaminess that takes the dish to another level.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Orzo

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you are making a larger batch, consider using a larger skillet. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking, impacting flavor and texture.

  
  

• Keep the Pasta From Sticking: Stir the orzo occasionally while it’s cooking to prevent it from sticking together, ensuring a pleasant texture.

  
  

Variations to Try

This chicken orzo recipe is highly adaptable, so feel free to get creative. Here are a few suggestions:

• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest at the end adds a refreshing citrus aroma to the dish.

  
  

• Spiced Version: Toss in some red pepper flakes while sautéing for a kick of heat that balances with the richness.

  
  

• Nutty Flavor: Add toasted pine nuts or almonds for added crunch and flavor.

  
  

• Alternative Proteins: Swap out the chicken for shrimp or chickpeas to cater to various dietary preferences.