Name: Creamy Pesto Chicken Orzo: 30-Minute Comfort Food Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 Boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup Orzo; 1/2 cup Pesto; 1/2 cup Heavy cream; 2 cups Low-sodium chicken broth; 1/2 cup Freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups Spinach; 1 cup Cherry tomatoes; 2 tbsp Olive oil; 3 cloves Minced garlic; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste

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Creamy Pesto Chicken Orzo is a delightful one-pan meal that I often prepare for cozy weeknight dinners. This recipe brings together succulent chicken and tender orzo in a luscious creamy pesto sauce, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you still want to enjoy gourmet flavors at home. In just thirty minutes, you can serve a dish that is as satisfying as it is quick to make. When I first discovered this recipe, it quickly became a staple in my kitchen, and I’m sure it will in yours, too!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pesto Chicken Orzo

This dish is packed with flavor and nutrition, making it an excellent choice for various occasions. Here’s why you’ll love this creamy pesto chicken pasta:

Quick to prepare: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
One-pan wonder: Easy cleanup with all ingredients cooked together.
Nutritious: Packed with spinach and tomatoes for added vitamins.
Comforting: Creamy sauce brings a cozy, indulgent feel to any meal.
Customizable: Easily swap ingredients for a unique twist, like pesto chicken with orzo or creamy chicken and pesto orzo.
Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike love this delicious dish.

Ingredients for Creamy Pesto Chicken Orzo

Gather these items:

2 Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup Orzo
1/2 cup Pesto
1/2 cup Heavy cream
2 cups Low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups Spinach
1 cup Cherry tomatoes
2 tbsp Olive oil
3 cloves Minced garlic
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken Orzo Step-by-Step

Step 1: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season them with salt and pepper.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed. Toss in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then, add in the spinach and cherry tomatoes; sauté until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften, around 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Pour in the orzo and stir to combine with the vegetables. Cook for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the pasta.
Step 5: Add the chicken back into the skillet, along with the chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Step 6: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and pesto. Mix thoroughly until everything is well coated and creamy. If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
Step 7: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 8: Serve your creamy creation warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Pesto Chicken Orzo

Keep these in mind:

This recipe is great for meal prep; you can make a large batch and store it in the fridge.
Feel free to substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for different protein options.
Add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
To enhance the flavor, consider using homemade pesto instead of store-bought.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Pesto Chicken Orzo

Here are some ideas on how to serve this dish:

Pair it with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Serve with garlic bread on the side for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
Top with fresh herbs like basil or parsley to elevate the dish.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Pesto Chicken Orzo

This recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring back its creamy texture. Meal prep has never been easier!

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Pesto Chicken Orzo

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Pesto Chicken Orzo?

The key is to ensure the orzo is cooked just right—al dente. This ensures it won’t turn mushy, allowing it to soak up the creamy sauce beautifully. Using a high-quality pesto also enhances the flavor significantly.

Can I make Creamy Pesto Chicken Orzo ahead of time?

Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving, adding a little broth if it thickens up.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Pesto Chicken Orzo?

Avoid overcooking the orzo. It’s best to check for doneness a minute or two before the suggested time. Also, make sure to stir the cream in on low heat to prevent it from curdling.

Variations of Creamy Pesto Chicken Orzo You Can Try

Here are some delicious variations:

Try a pesto chicken orzo bake by transferring the mixture to a baking dish, topping it with cheese, and baking until bubbly.
Make it a creamy chicken orzo with basil pesto for a fresh twist.
For a healthier option, swap out the orzo for quinoa or whole wheat pasta.
Enjoy a one-pot pesto chicken orzo by cooking everything in one pot without removing the chicken until the end.

Creamy Pesto Chicken Orzo: 30-Minute Comfort Food Delight - Creamy Pesto Chicken Orzo - main visual representation

For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Chicken Pasta or Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas.

Creamy Pesto Chicken Orzo: 30-Minute Comfort Food Delight - Creamy Pesto Chicken Orzo - additional detail

For more information on the nutritional benefits of spinach, visit Healthline.