Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 4 ounces Boursin cheese (garlic & herb flavor)
- 1/2 cup baby spinach, roughly chopped (optional but adds freshness)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Substitution suggestions: If you can’t find Boursin, cream cheese mixed with garlic powder, dried herbs, and a little grated Parmesan can work in a pinch. For the spinach, kale or arugula are great alternatives.
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken pieces, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant—this step always reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen, where garlic was the secret star that lifted every dish.
- Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently. This little step adds a subtle nutty flavor that makes a big difference in the final dish.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the Boursin cheese until melted and creamy. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, along with the chopped spinach. Stir everything together until the spinach wilts, about 2 minutes.
- Finish by sprinkling in the grated Parmesan and adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. If you want a little extra creaminess, a splash of milk or cream can be stirred in here.
- Remove from heat and let it sit for a minute before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. This is one of those dishes that smells like home, and the look of it always makes me smile.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International