ONE-PAN Creamy Chicken Orzo with Mushrooms, Spinach, and Basil Pesto
Looking for a delicious and easy dinner option? Look no further than this One-Pan Creamy Chicken Orzo with Mushrooms, Spinach, and Basil Pesto! This dish combines tender chicken thighs, savory mushrooms, fresh spinach, and creamy orzo all in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, with the addition of basil pesto, you’ll have an irresistible flavor packed into every bite!
Why make this recipe?
This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight meal. Not only is it quick to prepare, but using just one pan means less washing up afterward. The creamy texture and vibrant flavors from the mushrooms and spinach elevate this dish, making it a satisfying choice for the whole family. With the aromatic basil pesto, your taste buds are bound to fall in love!
How to prepare One-Pan Creamy Chicken Orzo with Mushrooms, Spinach, and Basil Pesto
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon paprika 🌶️
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning 🌿
- 1⁄2 teaspoon salt 🧂
- 1⁄2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 🌑
- 1.5 lb skinless boneless chicken thighs 🍗
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided) 🫒
- 1 tablespoon olive oil 🫒
- 8 oz baby bella mushrooms or crimini 🍄
- Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
- 1 cup orzo (uncooked) 🍝
- 5 cloves garlic (minced) 🧄
- 1⁄2 teaspoon Italian seasoning or Herbs from Provence 🌿
- 2 cups chicken stock 🍶
- 1⁄4 teaspoon salt 🧂
- 5 oz fresh baby spinach 🍃
- 1⁄2 cup heavy cream 🥛
- 1⁄3 cup basil pesto 🌱
- Fresh basil for garnish 🌿
Instructions:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Season the chicken thighs with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside. 🍗
- In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the mushrooms. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they are soft. 🍄
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. 🧄
- Add the orzo to the pan, then pour in the chicken stock and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat and cook until the orzo is tender and the liquid has been absorbed, about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the spinach, heavy cream, basil pesto, and the chicken. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through. 🍃🥛🌱
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed, and garnish with fresh basil before serving.
How to serve One-Pan Creamy Chicken Orzo with Mushrooms, Spinach, and Basil Pesto
Serve this delicious dish hot, straight from the pan! It pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. Enjoy the creamy goodness while it’s fresh!
How to store One-Pan Creamy Chicken Orzo with Mushrooms, Spinach, and Basil Pesto
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen up the orzo if it thickens too much.
Tips for preparing One-Pan Creamy Chicken Orzo with Mushrooms, Spinach, and Basil Pesto
- Make sure not to overcook the orzo; keep an eye on the liquid and test the pasta for doneness.
- For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the pesto for an hour before cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers, depending on your preference!
Variations
- Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat.
- For a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken with more vegetables or chickpeas and use vegetable stock.
- Experiment with different types of pesto (like sun-dried tomato or arugula) to change up the flavor!
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes! You can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes such as ditalini or even long pasta, but cooking times may vary.
2. Is it possible to freeze this dish?
While you can freeze the dish, the pasta’s texture may change when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for up to two months.
3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative, and check the pesto for dairy ingredients.
Now you’re all set to enjoy this creamy, comforting One-Pan Creamy Chicken Orzo with Mushrooms, Spinach, and Basil Pesto! Happy cooking! 🍽️