One-Pan Chicken and Spinach Orzo

One-Pan Chicken and Spinach Orzo

This One-Pan Chicken and Spinach Orzo is an easy weeknight dinner with chicken and spinach in a creamy tomato orzo.

Ingredients

  • olive oil
    1 tbsp
  • white onion

    diced finely

    ½
  • garlic

    minced

    3 cloves
  • chicken broth)

    (i like better than bouillon base

    1 c
  • uncooked orzo pasta
    ¾ c
  • can diced tomatoes)

    undrained (if you can get the version that has basil and oregano great!

    1
  • italian seasonings
    1 tsp
  • kosher salt)
    ½ tsp
  • crushed red pepper flakes)

    (optional if you like heat

    ¼ tsp
  • shredded rotisserie chicken)

    (see notes

    2 c
  • spinach leaves)

    (measured then chopped

    3 c
  • grated parmesan cheese
    ¼ c

Directions

  1. 1

    In a large skillet, bring the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sautee the onion until soft, adding the garlic for the last minute of cooking.

  2. 2

    Add the chicken broth, orzo, diced tomatoes, Italian seasonings, salt, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer and cover. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed. Add the chicken and the spinach leaves for the last 3 minutes of cooking. Sprinkle with Parmesan and serve.

One-Pan Chicken and Spinach Orzo

One-Pan Chicken and Spinach Orzo

4.8(146)284 cal

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Ratings & Reviews

0.0/ 5
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Based on 146 ratings

the-girl-who-ate-everything.com
4.8(146 reviews)
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About this Recipe

Tired of complicated weeknight dinners with endless dishes? This One-Pan Chicken and Spinach Orzo is your answer, delivering a complete, comforting meal straight from a single pan, making cleanup a breeze.

Why This Recipe Works

What makes this recipe a weeknight hero is its brilliant one-pan design. All the flavors of tender chicken, savory orzo, and fresh spinach meld together in a creamy tomato sauce, building layers of taste without the fuss. It cleverly uses shredded rotisserie chicken, cutting down on prep and cook time significantly while ensuring a perfectly cooked protein every time.

What to Expect

Prepare for a truly satisfying and wholesome meal. You'll enjoy tender orzo pasta bathed in a rich, creamy tomato sauce infused with aromatic garlic and Italian seasonings. Bits of juicy chicken and vibrant, wilted spinach add both substance and freshness to every forkful. The optional kick from crushed red pepper flakes elevates the experience, leaving you feeling nourished and content. Plus, it's a dish you can feel good about, coming in at a reasonable 284 calories per serving.

Customization & Variations

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to your pantry and preferences. While rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut, you can easily use cooked chicken breast or thighs that you’ve shredded. For a deeper herby note, seek out canned diced tomatoes with basil and oregano. And if you love a little heat, don't hesitate to increase the crushed red pepper flakes to your liking. Feel free to add more fresh herbs at the end for an extra burst of flavor.

Serving & Context

This hearty One-Pan Chicken and Spinach Orzo is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a comforting meal without the fuss. Serve it as a stand-alone dish, or alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette for a complete dinner that feels both special and effortless.

Frequently Asked Questions