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If you are looking for a cozy, flavorful, and satisfying meal to whip up on a weeknight, this Boursin Orzo with Chicken Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Tender chicken breasts join forces with creamy, garlicky Boursin cheese and delicate orzo pasta to create a dish that feels indulgent yet comforting. The addition of fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese offers a pop of color and a delightful depth of flavor, making every bite a joyous experience that’s perfect for sharing with family or friends. You’ll soon discover why this recipe easily becomes a beloved staple in your cooking rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in delivering on texture, flavor, and freshness without complicating the cooking process. Simple yet carefully chosen, these components come together beautifully, ensuring your dish tastes like it took hours to prepare when it’s actually on your table in just 30 minutes.
- 2 large chicken breasts: Provides juicy, protein-packed main flavor with a golden sear for a satisfying bite.
- 1 cup orzo pasta: Tiny, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors wonderfully.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and helps with the perfect sear on the chicken.
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth: Infuses the orzo with savory depth while melting the cheese smoothly.
- 1 (5.2 oz) package Boursin cheese (Garlic & Herb): The star ingredient—creamy, garlicky, and herbaceous, it transforms the dish’s sauce into pure decadence.
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped: Brightens up the plate with vibrant green color and a touch of earthiness.
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Adds a nutty, salty finish that complements the creamy base perfectly.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that bring out the flavor harmony in the dish.
How to Make Boursin Orzo with Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Orzo
Start by cooking the orzo pasta according to the package instructions. This usually means boiling it until tender, then draining. Setting the orzo aside while you prepare the chicken helps keep things organized and ensures the pasta is perfectly cooked and ready to soak up the creamy sauce later on.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for 6 to 7 minutes on each side until it develops a beautiful golden crust and is fully cooked through. The goal is juicy and tender chicken that pairs perfectly with the rich orzo. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and slice it into pieces for easy serving.
Step 3: Create the Boursin Sauce
In the same skillet used for the chicken, pour in the chicken broth and add the Boursin cheese. Stir gently over medium heat to melt the cheese and combine it fully with the broth. This stage is where the magic happens, as the sauce thickens and becomes irresistibly smooth and flavorful, ready to coat the pasta beautifully.
Step 4: Combine Orzo and Spinach
Return the cooked orzo to the skillet with the creamy sauce and add the chopped fresh spinach. Stir everything together over low to medium heat just long enough for the spinach to wilt, infusing the dish with freshness and a lovely pop of color without losing its delicate texture.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Plate the creamy orzo mixture, then arrange the sliced chicken on top. Finish off with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a rich, slightly salty kick. Serve immediately while it’s warm and comforting, the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and fresh flavors wrapped up in one delightful dish.
How to Serve Boursin Orzo with Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
To enhance presentation and add a little fresh zing, consider sprinkling some chopped fresh parsley or basil over the top. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables can make the meal even more satisfying and well-rounded. Garlic bread or warm pita also complement the creamy orzo perfectly if you want to add a bread element to the table.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant touch, serve the orzo in shallow bowls topped with a fan of sliced chicken. You can also transfer the mixture into small individual gratin dishes and sprinkle with Parmesan before broiling for a bubbly, golden crust. This little upgrade makes it perfect for dinner parties or special family meals.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Boursin Orzo with Chicken Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before storing to maintain the creamy texture and prevent sogginess.
Freezing
If you want to freeze this dish, it’s best to separate the chicken and orzo because cooked spinach can become watery after thawing. Freeze the orzo in a sealed container for up to 2 months, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on low heat stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen up the sauce. Stir often to keep the texture creamy and prevent the orzo from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use different cheese instead of Boursin?
While Boursin gives this dish its unique creamy and herby flavor, you can substitute with cream cheese mixed with garlic and herbs, or a soft goat cheese for similar results, though the taste will be slightly different.
What type of orzo is best for this recipe?
Regular orzo pasta is ideal because it cooks quickly and has a tender texture that absorbs the sauce well. Whole wheat orzo can be used for a nuttier flavor but may require a few extra minutes to cook.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers work wonderfully and add extra layers of flavor and texture. Just add them while cooking the sauce so they meld well.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Traditional orzo is made from wheat and is not gluten-free, but you can find gluten-free orzo alternatives made from rice or corn that will work nicely with this recipe.
How do I make sure the chicken stays juicy?
Don’t overcook the chicken — aim for a golden crust and an internal temperature of 165°F. Let the chicken rest a few minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute, keeping each bite tender.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Boursin Orzo with Chicken Recipe enough if you want a dish that is quick to make but leaves a memorable impression. It’s creamy, comforting, fresh, and full of flavor, a perfect weeknight delight or impressive dinner that will keep everyone coming back for seconds. Go ahead, give it a try and watch it become one of your favorite go-to meals!
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Boursin Orzo with Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy and flavorful Boursin Orzo with Chicken is a quick and satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner. Tender chicken breasts are pan-seared to golden perfection and served over buttery orzo pasta tossed with garlic and herb Boursin cheese, fresh spinach, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Ready in just 30 minutes, this comforting dish combines rich, creamy textures with wholesome ingredients for a deliciously balanced meal.
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 large chicken breasts
Pasta
- 1 cup orzo pasta
Dairy
- 1 (5.2 oz) package Boursin cheese (Garlic & Herb)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Liquids & Oils
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
Produce & Seasonings
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Cook each side for 6-7 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and slice it thinly.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and add the Boursin cheese. Stir continuously over medium heat until the cheese has completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Spinach: Add the cooked orzo and chopped fresh spinach to the skillet with the sauce. Stir well and cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach has wilted and everything is heated through.
- Serve: Transfer the creamed orzo and spinach mixture to serving plates. Top with the sliced chicken breasts and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- For a lighter version, substitute chicken broth with low-sodium broth.
- Fresh spinach can be substituted with baby kale or Swiss chard.
- If Boursin cheese is unavailable, cream cheese with minced garlic and herbs can be combined as an alternative.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables.
