One Pan Chicken and Spinach Orzo

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that combines simplicity with flavor, and that’s exactly what you’ll find in One Pan Chicken and Spinach Orzo. Picture this: it’s a weeknight, and after a long day, you need a dinner that isn’t just quick but also hearty and comforting. This recipe has become my go-to for those busy evenings when I crave something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The beauty of One Pan Chicken and Spinach Orzo lies not only in its simplicity but also in how all the ingredients come together harmoniously in just one pan. It’s a meal that warms you from the inside out and feels like a warm hug on your plate.

As the aroma of sautéing onions and garlic fills the kitchen, memories of family dinners come flooding back. It’s a dish that not only nourishes but also brings people together. Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick family meal or serving it to guests, One Pan Chicken and Spinach Orzo is sure to impress. Plus, the clean-up is a breeze, which is always a bonus when you’re tired and want to get back to relaxing. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal fuss, you can whip up this delightful dish in no time, making it perfect for any occasion.

Ingredient List for One Pan Chicken and Spinach Orzo

The ingredients for One Pan Chicken and Spinach Orzo are simple yet effective, creating a deliciously satisfying meal. Each component plays a vital role in developing flavor and texture. The orzo serves as the perfect base, while the chicken adds protein and heartiness. The spinach not only contributes nutrition but also a vibrant color that brings the dish to life.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing and adding richness.
• 1/2 white onion, diced finely: Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides aromatic flavor.
• 1 cup chicken broth: The base for cooking the orzo and infusing flavor.
• 3/4 cup uncooked orzo pasta: The star ingredient that absorbs all the wonderful flavors.
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds acidity and texture.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasonings: A blend of herbs that enhances flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning.
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Optional heat for those who enjoy a little spice.
• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken: Convenient and adds protein.
• 3 cups spinach leaves, measured then chopped: Nutritional powerhouse and adds color.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For a savory finish.

Step by Step Guide for One Pan Chicken and Spinach Orzo

Cooking One Pan Chicken and Spinach Orzo is a breeze, thanks to its straightforward instructions. You’re going to love how quickly this delicious meal comes together. Let’s dive into the steps, and soon you’ll be enjoying a fabulous dish that will impress your family and friends.

1. Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. As it warms up, take a moment to appreciate the pleasant aroma filling your kitchen. Once it’s hot, add the diced onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes. This is where the magic begins, as the flavors start to develop.
2. Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute. Be careful not to let it burn; you want it to become fragrant but not too brown. Stir it in well with the onions, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
3. Now, it’s time to introduce the remaining ingredients. Pour in the chicken broth, and then add the uncooked orzo pasta, diced tomatoes (undrained), Italian seasonings, kosher salt, and crushed red pepper flakes. Give everything a good stir to ensure the orzo is evenly coated.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil. You’ll see little bubbles forming at the surface, and that’s your cue to reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook. This is where the orzo will absorb all the flavors and liquid, becoming perfectly tender. Keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally, for about 12 to 15 minutes.
5. As the cooking time approaches, check to see if the liquid has been absorbed by the orzo. It should be cooked through and have a slightly creamy texture. If it seems a bit dry, don’t hesitate to add a splash more of the chicken broth.
6. Once the orzo is ready, it’s time to add the star ingredients. Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken and the chopped spinach leaves. The heat from the skillet will help wilt the spinach, turning it a vibrant green. Cook for another 3 minutes, stirring gently to mix everything in.
7. Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top. This adds a wonderful savory finish to the dish. Stir everything together one last time, ensuring the cheese melts and coats the mixture.
8. Remove the skillet from the heat. Let it sit for a minute before serving, allowing the flavors to settle. Serve One Pan Chicken and Spinach Orzo hot, and enjoy the warm, comforting aroma that fills your kitchen!

Tips for Success

To ensure your One Pan Chicken and Spinach Orzo turns out perfectly every time, here are some essential tips. Follow these, and you’ll be well on your way to mastering this dish!

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last for up to three days.
• Freezing: If you want to freeze the dish, make sure it’s completely cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors.
• Garnish: Consider topping with extra Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, before serving for added freshness.
• Adjusting Spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes based on your preference for heat.
• Rotisserie Chicken: Using rotisserie chicken saves time, but you can also cook your own chicken if preferred.

Best Served With

• Side Salad: A light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette perfectly complements the richness of the orzo.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up any leftover broth.
• Seasonal Vegetables: Grilled or roasted seasonal vegetables can add a nutritious side that enhances your meal.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the dish just before serving elevates the flavors beautifully.
• Casual Gatherings: This dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or casual dinners with friends.
• Storage Tips: Leftovers can be refrigerated for easy reheating the next day, making it excellent for lunch or dinner.

FAQ

Conclusion

The One Pan Chicken and Spinach Orzo is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that makes for an effortless yet impressive meal. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet dinner at home. I encourage you to try it and experience the magic of this dish yourself. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how delicious it tastes!

One Pan Chicken and Spinach Orzo

The ultimate comfort food, One Pan Chicken and Spinach Orzo combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and creamy orzo in one delicious dish. It's an easy weeknight dinner that satisfies your cravings while keeping cleanup simple. Make it tonight for a meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 white onion, diced finely
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 3/4 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 1 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasonings
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 3 cups spinach leaves, measured then chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Equipment

• Large Skillet

Method

 

1. Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. As it warms up, take a moment to appreciate the pleasant aroma filling your kitchen. Once it’s hot, add the diced onion and sauté until it's soft and translucent, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes. This is where the magic begins, as the flavors start to develop.
2. Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute. Be careful not to let it burn; you want it to become fragrant but not too brown. Stir it in well with the onions, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
3. Now, it’s time to introduce the remaining ingredients. Pour in the chicken broth, and then add the uncooked orzo pasta, diced tomatoes (undrained), Italian seasonings, kosher salt, and crushed red pepper flakes. Give everything a good stir to ensure the orzo is evenly coated.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil. You’ll see little bubbles forming at the surface, and that’s your cue to reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook. This is where the orzo will absorb all the flavors and liquid, becoming perfectly tender. Keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally, for about 12 to 15 minutes.
5. As the cooking time approaches, check to see if the liquid has been absorbed by the orzo. It should be cooked through and have a slightly creamy texture. If it seems a bit dry, don’t hesitate to add a splash more of the chicken broth.
6. Once the orzo is ready, it’s time to add the star ingredients. Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken and the chopped spinach leaves. The heat from the skillet will help wilt the spinach, turning it a vibrant green. Cook for another 3 minutes, stirring gently to mix everything in.
7. Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top. This adds a wonderful savory finish to the dish. Stir everything together one last time, ensuring the cheese melts and coats the mixture.
8. Remove the skillet from the heat. Let it sit for a minute before serving, allowing the flavors to settle. Serve One Pan Chicken and Spinach Orzo hot, and enjoy the warm, comforting aroma that fills your kitchen!

Notes

• Tip 1: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last for up to three days.
• Tip 2: If you want to freeze the dish, make sure it's completely cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months.
• Tip 3: This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors.
• Tip 4: Consider topping with extra Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, before serving for added freshness.
• Tip 5: Feel free to adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes based on your preference for heat.
• Tip 6: Using rotisserie chicken saves time, but you can also cook your own chicken if preferred.

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Meet Jade Summer

Reliability is just as important as flavor. I am the one double checking measurements and testing temperatures. I cooked this recipe repeatedly, troubleshooting any tricky parts, so you can trust that it will turn out perfectly the very first time you try it.