25 Minute Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Orzo.
If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal that the whole family will love, you’re in the right place! This 25 Minute Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Orzo is not only a breeze to prepare but also packed with flavors that blend beautifully together. Imagine tender chicken, creamy artichokes, and vibrant spinach all nestled in perfectly cooked orzo. It’s comfort food at its finest, ready in just about the time it takes to binge an episode of your favorite show.
Why It Deserves a Spot
This dish is the ultimate one-pot wonder that delivers on taste without compromising on time. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, a hungry partner, or a family gathering, this 25 Minute Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Orzo is sure to impress. It combines lean protein, greens, and carbs, making it a well-rounded meal. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to whatever you have on hand, ensuring that it can easily become a staple in your weekly meal rotation.
What Goes In
- 1 pound boneless chicken breasts, cubed – The protein that gives this dish its hearty base.
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – For sautéing and adding healthy fats.
- 4 teaspoons Italian seasoning – A delightful mix that adds depth of flavor.
- Chili flakes – For a subtle kick that elevates the dish.
- Salt and black pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
- 1 shallot, chopped – Adds a mild sweetness and depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped – The aromatic base that brings everything to life.
- 2 tablespoons salted butter – For richness and creaminess.
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta – The perfect pasta shape for this dish.
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme – A fresh herb that adds brightness.
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream – Creamy goodness that ties the dish together.
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard – Adds a tangy note that complements the other flavors.
- 1 jar (12 ounces) marinated artichokes, quartered – The star ingredient that brings a unique flavor.
- 2 cups baby spinach – Fresh greens that add color and nutrition.
- 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese – For a cheesy finish that makes everything better.
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest – A hint of citrus to brighten the dish.
- Fresh basil – For garnish and added flavor.
Kitchen Gear Checklist
- Large skillet – For cooking everything in one pot.
- Wooden spoon – For stirring and combining ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accuracy in your ingredients.
- Knife and cutting board – For chopping the chicken, shallot, and garlic.
- Colander – For draining the orzo if needed.
25 Minute Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Orzo. Made Stepwise
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients and chop the shallot and garlic. Cube the chicken breasts and set aside. This will save time and keep the cooking process smooth.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken breast, season with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and chili flakes. Sauté until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Cook the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the butter, chopped shallot, and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the shallots are translucent and fragrant.
Step 4: Add the Orzo
Stir in the dry orzo pasta, and let it toast for about 1 minute in the skillet. This will give the orzo a nice nutty flavor.
Step 5: Pour in the Liquid
Add the milk (or heavy cream), Dijon mustard, and fresh thyme to the skillet. Stir everything together, making sure the orzo is well coated. Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cover. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Step 6: Incorporate the Spinach and Artichokes
Once the orzo is cooked, add the marinated artichokes, baby spinach, and cooked chicken back to the skillet. Stir gently until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through.
Step 7: Finish with Cheese and Lemon
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated parmesan cheese and lemon zest. This will create a creamy sauce that clings to the pasta beautifully. Adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Serve the orzo hot, garnished with fresh basil. Enjoy your meal while it’s warm and cozy!
In-Season Flavor Ideas
- Add in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
- Swap out spinach for kale or Swiss chard if you want a stronger green flavor.
- Experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist.
- Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor and color.
Little Things that Matter
Don’t rush the sautéing process; taking time to brown the chicken and cook the aromatics will enhance the overall flavor of the dish. Also, be sure to taste as you go—adjusting the seasoning to your preference will make all the difference!
- Use a good quality olive oil for cooking.
- Try to use fresh herbs whenever possible, as they bring the dish to life.
- For an extra creamy texture, you can add more cheese or a splash of cream at the end.
Make-Ahead & Storage
This 25 Minute Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Orzo is best enjoyed fresh, but you can make it ahead of time. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or water to restore the creaminess.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the dish in portions. It should last up to 2 months in the freezer.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above.
Common Questions
Can I use whole wheat orzo instead of regular orzo?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo will add more fiber and a nutty flavor to the dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
What can I substitute for artichokes?
If you can’t find marinated artichokes, you can use canned artichoke hearts. Just add your own seasonings like lemon juice and olive oil to replicate the flavor.
Is this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the orzo with a gluten-free pasta option. Rice or quinoa can also work well as a base.
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in any veggies you enjoy. Broccoli, peas, or even asparagus are great options that would complement the dish beautifully.
Cook This Next
- Creamy Chicken Pasta – Another comforting pasta dish that’s sure to please!
- Creamy Chicken Soup – A warm and hearty soup perfect for chilly days.
- Creamy Vegan Pasta – A dairy-free option that’s just as satisfying.
Final Bite
This 25 Minute Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Orzo is a game-changer for weeknight dinners! It’s quick, flavorful, and comforting, making it the perfect solution for those busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of chicken, artichokes, and spinach not only tantalizes your taste buds but also provides a wholesome meal that everyone can enjoy. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and whip up this delightful dish tonight!
25 Minute Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Orzo.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Gather all your ingredients and chop the shallot and garlic. Cube the chicken breasts and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken breast, season with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and chili flakes. Sauté until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the butter, chopped shallot, and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the shallots are translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the dry orzo pasta, and let it toast for about 1 minute in the skillet.
- Add the milk (or heavy cream), Dijon mustard, and fresh thyme to the skillet. Stir everything together. Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cover. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente.
- Once the orzo is cooked, add the marinated artichokes, baby spinach, and cooked chicken back to the skillet. Stir gently until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated parmesan cheese and lemon zest.
- Serve the orzo hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Notes
- Don’t rush the sautéing process; it enhances the overall flavor.
- Use fresh herbs whenever possible for the best taste.
- For extra creaminess, add more cheese or a splash of cream at the end.
