Creamy Boursin Orzo with Chicken
Cooking is often a journey of discovery, and one of my favorite finds has been Boursin Orzo with Chicken. This delicious dish is like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for nourishing weeknight dinners or impressing guests at a family gathering. With creamy Boursin cheese and tender orzo pasta, it combines comfort and elegance effortlessly.
Why you’ll love this dish
Let me tell you why this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen. First off, it’s incredibly versatile—ideal for busy weeknights when time is short but flavor is a must. You can whip it up in about 30 minutes! The combination of seasoned chicken, orzo, fresh spinach, and rich cream creates a delectable experience that both adults and kids adore. It’s also budget-friendly, making it a reliable option without breaking the bank.
“This Boursin Orzo with Chicken has quickly become a family favorite! It’s creamy, rich, and quick to make. I love how I can have dinner on the table in no time." — Happy Home Cook
Preparing Boursin Orzo with Chicken
This recipe is a breeze to make, and it truly shines when you break it down step by step. You’ll start by searing the chicken to golden perfection before moving on to toasting the orzo. Trust me, those little details make all the difference in flavor! By the time you mix in the heavy cream and Boursin cheese, your home will smell utterly irresistible.
What you’ll need
Gather these ingredients for your culinary adventure:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 package (5.2 oz) Boursin cheese (Garlic & Fine Herbs flavor)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Note: You can substitute chicken with shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian twist!
Directions to follow
- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken. Sear for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, toast the orzo for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Pour in the chicken broth, bring it to a simmer, then cover and cook for about 8–10 minutes, until the orzo is tender.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Boursin cheese, mixing until it’s smooth and creamy.
- Toss in the chopped spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes until it wilts.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, allowing it to warm through. If desired, garnish with Parmesan and parsley for an added touch.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving Boursin Orzo with Chicken, let your creativity shine! Plate it elegantly in a bowl, letting the creamy sauce cascade over the orzo and chicken. Pair it with crusty bread for some extra comfort or a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance out the richness. And don’t forget—this dish is just as delightful the next day, so it’s perfect for meal prep!
Storage and reheating tips
If you have leftovers (if you’re lucky!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Proper storage will keep it fresh for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the creamy texture. If you’re looking to store it longer, consider freezing the cooked orzo separately from the chicken to maintain optimal quality.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few extra nuggets of wisdom to elevate your dish:
- Make sure to sear the chicken properly—you want that golden crust for flavor.
- Stir the orzo often while toasting to enhance its nuttiness.
- If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dish!
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? There are plenty of ways to put your spin on this recipe! Try incorporating sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweetness or swap in some fresh herbs like basil or thyme for an aromatic twist. You could even add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick weeknight option.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! While Boursin cheese adds a unique flavor, other cream cheeses or herbed cheeses can work as substitutes.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days and can be reheated easily. Just be sure to add a bit more liquid when warming to keep it creamy.
Now that you have everything you need to create this comforting dish, it’s time to make Boursin Orzo with Chicken your new go-to recipe! Happy cooking!
Boursin Orzo with Chicken
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Can substitute with shrimp or tofu.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For searing chicken.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt Or to taste.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Pasta
- 1 cup orzo pasta Toasted in the skillet.
- 2 cups chicken broth For cooking orzo.
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 package Boursin cheese (5.2 oz, Garlic & Fine Herbs flavor)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese Optional, for garnish.
- to taste fresh parsley, chopped Optional, for garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken. Sear for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, toast the orzo for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Pour in the chicken broth, bring it to a simmer, then cover and cook for about 8–10 minutes, until the orzo is tender.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Boursin cheese, mixing until it’s smooth and creamy.
- Toss in the chopped spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes until it wilts.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, allowing it to warm through. If desired, garnish with Parmesan and parsley.
