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Creamy spinach orzo dish with tender chicken in one pan, perfect for easy weeknight dinners.

Marry Me Orzo One Pan Creamy Spinach

A creamy, garlicky orzo dish cooked in one pan with chicken, fresh spinach, and a delightful blend of flavors for a comforting weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb Boneless skinless chicken thighs Breasts can also work
  • 1 cup Orzo pasta Cooks quickly and absorbs flavors
  • 4 cups Fresh spinach A big handful or two; it wilts down a lot
  • 1 medium Onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 2 cups Chicken broth For cooking the orzo
  • 1 cup Heavy cream For a creamy sauce
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated Adds saltiness and thickness
  • 0.25 cup Sun dried tomatoes, chopped Adds a special pop of flavor
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust to taste
  • 1 tsp Black pepper Adjust to taste
  • 0.5 tsp Red pepper flakes Optional for heat
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil For cooking
  • 1 tbsp Butter Optional but enhances flavor

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil. Sear the chicken until golden on both sides, then remove to a plate.
  2. In the same pan, add more oil if necessary and sauté the onion for a few minutes before adding the garlic. Cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, then pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pan to incorporate the flavorful bits.
  4. Stir in the orzo and bring to a gentle simmer. Nestle the chicken back into the pan. Cover and cook until the orzo is tender and the chicken is cooked through, stirring occasionally.
  5. Lower the heat and stir in the cream and Parmesan cheese. Add the spinach and let it wilt for a minute. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as desired.

Notes

For a lightened version, replace chicken with shrimp, which cooks quickly. Adjust seasonings accordingly. Serve with a side salad and bread for dipping in the creamy sauce.