Description
This creamy and flavorful Boursin Orzo with Chicken recipe combines tender seared chicken breasts with a rich sauce made from Boursin cheese, heavy cream, and chicken broth, tossed with tender orzo pasta and fresh spinach. It’s a comforting one-pan meal that’s quick to prepare, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Seasonings and Oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Pasta and Liquids
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Cheese and Greens
- 1 package (5.2 oz) Boursin cheese (Garlic & Fine Herbs flavor)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare and Season Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While the oil warms, season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts evenly with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to enhance flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the heated skillet. Cook each side for 4-5 minutes or until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.
- Toast the Orzo: In the same skillet, add the orzo pasta and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning and to bring out a nutty flavor.
- Simmer the Orzo: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook the orzo for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes tender and absorbs most of the broth.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and Boursin cheese until the cheese completely melts and the sauce turns creamy.
- Add Spinach: Mix in the chopped fresh spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts and blends into the sauce.
- Reheat Chicken: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet with the orzo mixture and warm through to ensure everything is hot and flavors meld together.
- Serve and Garnish: Garnish the dish with grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley if desired, then serve immediately for a delicious, comforting meal.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
- You can add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Use gluten-free orzo or pasta if you need this recipe to be gluten-free.
