If you’ve been searching for a cozy, flavorful, and absolutely comforting dish to add to your weeknight dinner rotation, look no further than this Creamy Chicken Orzo with Cherry Tomatoes and Spinach Recipe. It’s the perfect harmony of tender chicken, velvety orzo pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, and vibrant spinach all mingling in a luscious, creamy base that makes every bite feel like a warm hug. Simple to prepare yet bursting with fresh, wholesome ingredients, this dish brings together colors and textures in a way that will have your family asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your ingredients lined up for this Creamy Chicken Orzo with Cherry Tomatoes and Spinach Recipe is a breeze, and each one plays a special role in building those delicious layers of flavor. From the juicy chicken pieces to the fresh spinach that adds a pop of green, every item brings texture, color, and taste that makes this dish a true winner.
- 1 pound chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces to ensure quick, even cooking and a tender bite in every forkful.
- 1 cup orzo pasta: Its tiny size and unique shape absorb the creamy broth perfectly, making the dish both hearty and elegant.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for cooking, it adds a smooth base and brings out the flavors of the chicken and vegetables.
- 1 onion: Finely chopped to add a subtle sweetness and depth during the sauté process.
- 3 cloves garlic: Minced for just the right burst of aromatic richness that complements all the other ingredients.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Infuses the orzo with savory flavor while keeping everything perfectly moist and tender.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes: Halved to release their juicy sweetness, balancing the creamy texture with a fresh tang.
- 1 cup spinach: Fresh and packed, it adds vibrant color and a healthy, leafy component that’s both nutritious and tasty.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A hint of herbaceous warmth that lifts the savory elements beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Offers a fragrant, sweet flavor that complements the chicken and tomatoes.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste, essential for bringing out the natural flavors of all the ingredients.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: For garnish, adds a salty, nutty finish that makes this dish truly irresistible.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped and sprinkled at the end for a fresh, herbaceous burst and visual appeal.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Orzo with Cherry Tomatoes and Spinach Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Toss in your bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them generously with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Let the chicken cook until it develops a beautiful golden crust and is cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside while you prepare the rest of this delicious dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Add the finely chopped onion and allow it to soften and become translucent over 3 to 4 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes—this step really wakes up those amazing flavors and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
Step 3: Toast the Orzo
Now it’s time for the orzo. Add the uncooked orzo pasta to the skillet and stir frequently for 1 to 2 minutes. Toasting the orzo lightly before adding liquid gives it a nuttier flavor and a better texture, so don’t skip this step—it truly elevates the dish’s overall taste.
Step 4: Add Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in your chicken broth and stir in the halved cherry tomatoes. Turn the heat up to bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the orzo simmer gently for 10 to 12 minutes, until the pasta is tender and most of the broth has been absorbed. This step creates that luscious, creamy base that’s signature to this Creamy Chicken Orzo with Cherry Tomatoes and Spinach Recipe.
Step 5: Add Chicken and Spinach
Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet along with the fresh spinach. Stir gently until the spinach wilts down and all the ingredients are beautifully combined. At this point, the dish will start to look vibrant and colorful, with every bite promising a balanced mix of savory meat, fresh greens, and silky pasta.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Add a generous handful of chopped fresh parsley for color and a fresh burst of flavor before serving. This step adds the perfect finishing touch to your Creamy Chicken Orzo with Cherry Tomatoes and Spinach Recipe, making it look as inviting as it tastes.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Orzo with Cherry Tomatoes and Spinach Recipe
Garnishes
Besides the Parmesan and parsley, you can elevate the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle zing. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil just before serving also enhances the creamy texture and adds a beautiful sheen.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderful on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini make perfect companions. Garlic bread or a warm baguette also pairs beautifully, soaking up any creamy sauce left on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the Creamy Chicken Orzo with Cherry Tomatoes and Spinach Recipe in individual shallow bowls sprinkled with microgreens or edible flowers for an elegant, restaurant-quality touch. Layering it in a clear casserole dish for potlucks or family gatherings also lets all those vibrant colors shine through and invite everyone to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. This Creamy Chicken Orzo with Cherry Tomatoes and Spinach Recipe keeps well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners during a busy week.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, keep in mind the fresh spinach may lose some texture upon thawing. If you plan to freeze this dish, consider adding fresh spinach after reheating. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to restore creaminess if needed. Microwave reheating also works—just cover and heat in short intervals to avoid drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta other than orzo?
Absolutely! While orzo works perfectly because of its small size and texture, you can experiment with other small pastas like couscous, Israeli couscous, or even small shells. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What kind of chicken works best for this recipe?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe because they cook quickly and stay tender. However, you can also substitute boneless chicken thighs for a richer flavor and juicier texture.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the chicken for hearty mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The creaminess and fresh veggies still make it a satisfying meal.
Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely! The Creamy Chicken Orzo with Cherry Tomatoes and Spinach Recipe stores well and reheats nicely, making it a great option for preparing meals ahead of time.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a dairy-free cheese alternative. You can also stir in a dairy-free cream or coconut milk to maintain that creamy texture without dairy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Creamy Chicken Orzo with Cherry Tomatoes and Spinach Recipe that’s both comforting and vibrant, simple yet sophisticated. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy family dinner, this dish is guaranteed to bring smiles to the table. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite!
Print
Creamy Chicken Orzo with Cherry Tomatoes and Spinach Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Halal
Description
This delicious Chicken Orzo recipe combines tender, golden-brown chicken with toasted orzo pasta, fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, and aromatic herbs simmered in savory chicken broth. Finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh parsley, it’s a comforting and flavorful one-pot meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 pound chicken breast – cut into bite-sized pieces
Grains and Pasta
- 1 cup orzo pasta – uncooked
Vegetables
- 1 onion – finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic – minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes – halved
- 1 cup spinach – fresh, packed
Liquids and Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – for cooking
- 2 cups chicken broth – for flavor
Herbs and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – for seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried basil – for flavor
- Salt and black pepper – to taste
Garnishes
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – for garnish
- Fresh parsley – chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or pot with a lid over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Toast the Orzo: Add the uncooked orzo pasta to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the orzo is lightly toasted and fragrant.
- Add Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and add the halved cherry tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Add Chicken and Spinach: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the fresh spinach. Stir gently until the spinach wilts and all ingredients are well combined.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the dish with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful chicken orzo meal.
Notes
- To save time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken breast yourself.
- For a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt before serving.
- Feel free to substitute spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a different green vegetable twist.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on stovetop or microwave.
