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ONE-POT Creamy Chicken Orzo with Spinach

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A comforting one-pot dinner made with tender chicken, creamy orzo, and fresh spinach, all cooked together for an easy, rich, and satisfying meal with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.
  2. Season the chicken with salt and black pepper, then cook until lightly browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pot, sauté the diced onion until soft, about 3–4 minutes.
  4. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Stir in the orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes.
  6. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
  7. Cook, stirring often, for 8–10 minutes until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  8. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, spinach, red pepper flakes (if using), and the cooked chicken.
  9. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the dish becomes creamy.
  10. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Notes

  • Stir frequently to prevent orzo from sticking.
  • Add extra broth or milk when reheating to restore creaminess.
  • Mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes make great additions.
  • A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the finished dish.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/one-pot-creamy-chicken-orzo-with-spinach/