If you’re searching for a comforting, rich, and utterly satisfying meal that comes together in just about 30 minutes, this Creamy Chicken Orzo Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender, juicy chicken pieces nestled in a luscious cheese sauce that perfectly coats each tiny orzo pasta, with a hint of fresh spinach brightening every bite. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate—simple enough for weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to share with friends or family. Trust me, once you try this, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish lies in its straightforward yet thoughtful ingredients. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s the orzo delivering tender pasta pearls, the sharpness of cheddar cheese soup adding creaminess, or the fresh spinach bringing a pop of green and mild freshness. Preparing the Creamy Chicken Orzo Recipe with these essentials means flavors are balanced and every bite is pure joy.
- ½ pound orzo pasta: Provides the perfect delicate texture that soaks up all the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sear the chicken to golden perfection without sticking.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces, offering lean protein that cooks quickly.
- ½ teaspoon salt (plus more for pasta water): Elevates all the flavors, making every ingredient shine.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat that enhances the chicken’s natural flavor.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness to the sauce and helps soften onions for depth.
- â…“ cup sweet yellow onion (small diced): Brings a hint of sweetness that balances the savory cheese.
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and flavor complexity.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and enhances the savory base of the sauce.
- ¼ teaspoon dried mustard: Gives a gentle tang that elevates the creamy sauce.
- â…› teaspoon sweet paprika: Lends mild smokiness and color to the sauce.
- â…› teaspoon ground thyme: Adds subtle herbal notes that compliment the chicken perfectly.
- 21 ounce condensed cheddar cheese soup (undiluted): Forms the star of the creamy sauce, delivering sharp and velvety cheese flavor.
- ¼ cup whole milk: Lightens the cheese soup just enough for smooth, luscious texture.
- ½ cup chopped baby spinach (stems removed, lightly packed): Provides fresh color and a mild earthiness that cuts through the rich sauce.
- Chopped fresh parsley or dried parsley flakes (optional garnish): Offers a bright, herbal finish for an inviting appearance.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Orzo Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Orzo Pasta
Start by boiling water with a pinch of salt to add flavor to the pasta itself. Cooking the orzo until it is al dente is essential because it should retain a bit of bite and not turn mushy when mixed into the creamy sauce later. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cool water to stop the cooking process and set aside. This prep ensures the orzo maintains a perfect, tender texture as it soaks up the rich cheese sauce.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Preheat your skillet and add olive oil before introducing the chicken pieces seasoned with salt and pepper. Cooking the chicken until golden on the outside and no longer pink inside not only locks in juicy texture but also brings a delicious savory crust that adds a wonderful contrast to the creamy sauce. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a clean plate to rest—this keeps the meat tender and prevents overcooking in the next steps.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Lower the heat to medium-low and melt the butter in the same skillet. Add the diced onions and garlic, cooking just until fragrant and soft. This gentle sauté unlocks the natural sweetness and aroma of the onions and garlic, providing a flavorful foundation for the sauce while blending beautifully with the spices and cheese to come.
Step 4: Build the Flavor with Broth and Spices
Next, stir in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the dried mustard, sweet paprika, and ground thyme. Allow this mixture to simmer briefly. This stage deepens the flavor profile by marrying the herbal and slightly smoky notes with the nourishing richness of the broth, preparing the perfect base for the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Add Cheese Soup and Milk
Pour in the condensed cheddar cheese soup and whole milk, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and luscious. This combination transforms the skillet into a velvety sauce that clings to every piece of orzo and chicken, creating that signature creaminess that makes this recipe so irresistible.
Step 6: Combine Orzo, Chicken, and Spinach
Fold the cooked orzo back into the skillet, making sure each grain is fully coated with the creamy sauce. Gently mix in the browned chicken and fresh spinach, allowing the spinach to wilt slightly into the warmth of the sauce. This final step balances the richness with fresh, bright notes and completes the creamy texture that makes this dish so comforting and satisfying.
Step 7: Ready to Serve
Once everything is combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. It’s best served immediately to enjoy the sauce at its creamiest. A sprinkle of fresh or dried parsley adds a lovely pop of color and a subtle herby lift that rounds out the dish beautifully.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Orzo Recipe
Garnishes
A light scatter of fresh chopped parsley or dried parsley flakes brings a fresh aroma and brightens the dish visually. If you want to add a little extra indulgence, a sprinkle of shredded sharp cheddar or a dash of cracked black pepper on top can elevate every bite.
Side Dishes
This creamy and rich dish pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to add crunch and a pop of color. A warm crusty bread or garlic breadstick is perfect for mopping up any extra cheese sauce left on the plate, making every mouthful a delight.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the Creamy Chicken Orzo Recipe in small, individual ramekins or shallow bowls to make it feel extra special. Garnish with edible flowers or microgreens for a restaurant-worthy look. You can even add a lemon wedge on the side for those who enjoy a zesty contrast that brightens the overall creaminess.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to meld beautifully after resting overnight, making it taste even better the next day. Just remember that the orzo can continue absorbing the sauce, so the texture might be a bit thicker when reheated.
Freezing
This Creamy Chicken Orzo Recipe freezes well if you want to prepare in advance or save portions for busy days. Portion the dish into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It’s best consumed within 2 months for optimal taste and texture. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating. You might want to add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. This ensures the creamy texture remains just as heavenly as when freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
Absolutely! While orzo works beautifully for its tiny, rice-like texture that absorbs the sauce well, you can substitute with other small pasta shapes like ditalini, acini di pepe, or even small shells. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly for the best results.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free or lighter?
You can swap the cheddar cheese soup and milk with dairy-free alternatives such as coconut cream, cashew cream, or a plant-based cheese sauce. Keep in mind the flavor profile will change slightly, but it can still be delicious and creamy with the right adjustments.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked perfectly?
The chicken pieces should be golden on the outside and cooked through with no pink remaining in the center. Typically, 7-9 minutes over medium-high heat is enough. Using a meat thermometer with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) can provide extra assurance.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Yes! Vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas can be included for added nutrition and color. Add them during the onion and garlic sauté step or alongside the spinach so they cook just enough to stay tender and vibrant.
What is the best way to store leftover Creamy Chicken Orzo Recipe?
Keeping leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge will preserve freshness for up to three days. If storing longer, freezing is a great option. Just be sure to cool the dish promptly before refrigerating or freezing to maintain quality and safety.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Orzo Recipe is one of those rare finds that balances simplicity with depth of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or treating loved ones to a satisfying meal, it delivers comfort in every spoonful. I wholeheartedly encourage you to whip up this cozy, cheesy delight and make it a regular part of your recipe rotation—you won’t regret it!
Print
Creamy Chicken Orzo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Creamy Chicken Orzo is a comforting and delicious one-pan meal featuring tender chicken pieces, cheesy cheddar soup sauce, and tender orzo pasta. Enhanced with sweet onions, garlic, baby spinach, and aromatic spices, this dish comes together quickly on the stovetop for a perfect weeknight dinner that serves 4.
Ingredients
Orzo and Pasta Ingredients
- ½ pound orzo pasta
- Salt (for pasta water, to taste)
Chicken and Cooking Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into ¾ inch pieces, patted dry
- ½ teaspoon salt, plus more for seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
- â…“ cup sweet yellow onion, small diced
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
Sauce Ingredients
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ teaspoon dried mustard
- â…› teaspoon sweet paprika
- â…› teaspoon ground thyme
- 21 ounce condensed cheddar cheese soup (undiluted)
- ¼ cup whole milk
- ½ cup chopped baby spinach, stems removed, lightly packed
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley or dried parsley flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the orzo pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to the package directions, about 9-11 minutes until al dente. Drain the pasta, rinse under cold water to stop the cooking, and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: Preheat a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil, then the chicken pieces. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 7-9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly golden and cooked through with no pink inside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set on a clean plate.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the butter to the skillet, then the diced onions and minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the onions are tender and fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add seasonings and broth: Stir in chicken broth, dried mustard, sweet paprika, and ground thyme. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the broth to start simmering and the flavors to meld.
- Make the cheese sauce: Add the undiluted condensed cheddar cheese soup and whole milk to the skillet. Stir continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine pasta, chicken, and spinach: Stir the reserved orzo into the cheese sauce until fully coated. Then add the cooked chicken and chopped baby spinach. Stir gently until everything is combined and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the spinach wilts completely into the sauce.
- Serve: Remove from heat and spoon into serving dishes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or dried parsley flakes if desired. Serve immediately for a creamy, comforting meal.
Notes
- Be sure to rinse the orzo after cooking to prevent it from sticking and to keep the texture light.
- Using undiluted condensed cheddar cheese soup creates a richer, creamier sauce.
- Feel free to swap baby spinach with other greens such as kale or arugula for a different flavor profile.
- For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat cheddar soup and substitute whole milk with a lighter milk option.
- Make sure the chicken is cooked completely before removing it from the skillet to ensure food safety.
