This Easy Chicken Orzo with Spinach and Cherry Tomatoes is a tasty one-pan dish that’s super simple to make. It’s packed with juicy chicken, fresh spinach, and sweet cherry tomatoes, making it colorful and inviting!
Cooking it all in one pan means less mess, and trust me, the flavors blend perfectly! I love having this for dinner—it’s not just good for the taste buds, but the heart too! 🌱🍅
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using chicken breast tenders for their tenderness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist!
Orzo Pasta: This rice-shaped pasta gives a nice texture. If orzo isn’t available, you can easily swap it for other small pasta like quinoa, couscous, or even diced rice.
Cherry Tomatoes: Their sweetness adds brightness to the dish. If they’re out of season, canned tomatoes can work, or use any fresh tomato you have on hand, just chop them up.
Spinach: Fresh spinach wilt nicely in this dish. If you’re out, kale or Swiss chard is a good alternative; just chop them into small bits for cooking.
Parmesan Cheese: For that creamy finish, I recommend using freshly grated Parmesan. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast can lend a cheesy flavor.
How Do You Get Your Chicken Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken could be daunting, but it’s all about timing! For juicy chicken, ensure your oil is hot before adding the chicken to seal in moisture. Cook until golden brown, around 5-7 minutes. Avoid crowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
- Use medium-high heat to brown the chicken firmly.
- Cook to a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). A meat thermometer will help!
- Don’t forget to let it rest for a few minutes after cooking for optimal juiciness.
Easy Chicken Orzo with Spinach and Cherry Tomatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb chicken breast tenders or cut into tender-size pieces
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh herbs (such as oregano or parsley) for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, making the total time about 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, toss the chicken tenders with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated. This quick marinating step helps enhance the flavor of the chicken!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken pieces. Cook them until they are browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Pay attention to avoid burning the garlic!
4. Cook Orzo:
Now, it’s time to add the orzo pasta to the skillet. Toast it lightly for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to coat it with the oil and aromatics. This step gives the orzo a delicious nutty flavor!
5. Add Broth and Simmer:
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to combine everything. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the orzo becomes tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed—a process that will take about 8-10 minutes.
6. Add Vegetables and Chicken:
Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and the fresh spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes, just until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften. Re-add the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing gently to combine all the ingredients.
7. Finish and Serve:
If you’d like, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese for extra creaminess. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish your dish with fresh herbs before serving warm—enjoy the delicious flavors!
This dish is not just easy to make but also full of flavor and nutrition, all in one pan for effortless cleanup! Perfect for busy nights when you want something warm and satisfying!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta Instead of Orzo?
Absolutely! If you don’t have orzo, feel free to substitute it with other small pasta like ditalini, couscous, or even quinoa. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you use, as some may take longer to cook.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
You can easily make this dish dairy-free by omitting the Parmesan cheese. For a creamy texture, consider adding a splash of coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative at the end of cooking.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen up the orzo and avoid dryness.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes, feel free to get creative! You can incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you choose, adding harder veggies earlier to ensure they soften properly.
