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One-Pan Chicken and Spinach Orzo


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  • Author: Madilyn
  • Total Time: 20 min

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil

½ medium white onion, finely diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup chicken broth (use low-sodium or your favorite brand)

¾ cup uncooked orzo pasta

1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
(if possible, choose the basil & oregano variety for extra flavor)

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

½ teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)

¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)

2 cups cooked shredded rotisserie chicken

3 cups fresh spinach leaves, roughly chopped

¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese


Instructions

  1. Sauté the aromatics:
    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

  2. Cook the orzo:
    Add the chicken broth, orzo, diced tomatoes (with their juices), Italian seasoning, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.
    Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 12–15 minutes — until most of the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is tender.

  3. Add chicken and spinach:
    Stir in the shredded chicken and chopped spinach during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Allow the spinach to wilt and the chicken to heat through.

  4. Finish with cheese:
    Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, stir gently, and taste for seasoning. Add more salt, pepper, or Parmesan if desired.

  5. Serve warm:
    Spoon into bowls and enjoy your creamy, comforting One-Pan Chicken and Spinach Orzo!

Notes

  • Chicken Options:
    You can substitute cooked chicken breast or thighs if you prefer not to use rotisserie. Simply sauté 1 lb of cubed chicken in olive oil for 5–6 minutes before adding the onion.
  • Vegetable Swaps:
    Replace spinach with small broccoli florets. Add them at the start of the simmering step so they have time to steam until tender.
  • Cheese Variations:
    Mozzarella or Asiago can be used in place of Parmesan for a creamier, milder flavor.
  • Storage Tips:
    Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add a splash of broth when reheating to loosen the sauce.
  • Make It Creamier:
    Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for an extra silky texture.
  • Prep Time: 5 min
  • Cook Time: 15 min
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired