Creamy Chicken Orzo with Spinach and Pesto Recipe

Introduction

This Creamy Chicken Orzo in 30 Minutes is the ultimate weeknight lifesaver, delivering a delicious and satisfying meal with minimal cleanup. Tender chicken, fresh spinach, and juicy tomatoes simmer together in a rich, pesto-infused sauce. For another fantastic orzo dish, try this Spinach and Mushroom Orzo in Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe. It’s so easy and delicious, you’ll want to add it to your regular rotation.

Ingredients

This creamy chicken orzo recipe comes together with a vibrant mix of fresh spinach, sweet tomatoes, and rich basil pesto for a comforting, one-pan meal.

• 1.5 lb chicken breasts, skinless, boneless
• 1 cup uncooked orzo
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 10 oz cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
• 5 oz fresh baby spinach
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1/3 cup basil pesto
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• salt and black pepper to taste

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Total Time	35 minutes

Context: This Creamy Chicken Orzo with Spinach, Tomatoes, and Basil Pesto comes together in about 35 minutes, which is roughly 25% faster than many similar one-pot pasta recipes that require longer simmering times.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry and season generously with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of oil. Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Transfer to a plate to rest.

Step 2 — Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté diced onion until soft, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This builds the flavor base for your creamy chicken orzo.

Step 3 — Toast the Orzo

Add the dry orzo pasta to the pot. Stir constantly for 1–2 minutes until the orzo is lightly toasted and coated in the oil. This simple step adds a wonderful nutty depth to the final dish.

Step 4 — Deglaze and Simmer

Pour in chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot—that’s pure flavor. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 5 — Create the Creamy Sauce

Reduce the heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich.

Step 6 — Incorporate Spinach, Tomatoes & Chicken

Add the fresh spinach and halved cherry tomatoes to the creamy orzo. Slice or shred the rested chicken and add it back to the pot. Gently fold everything together until the spinach is just wilted, about 2–3 minutes. The residual heat is sufficient.

Step 7 — Finish with Basil Pesto

Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the basil pesto until fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. The pesto adds a vibrant, herby freshness that brightens the entire creamy chicken orzo.

Step 8 — Serve and Garnish

Divide the creamy chicken orzo with spinach and tomatoes among bowls. Garnish with extra Parmesan, a drizzle of pesto, and fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Nutritional Information

Calories	~520 kcal
Protein	~38 g
Carbohydrates	~45 g
Fat	~22 g
Fiber	~4 g
Sodium	~680 mg

Note: These are approximate values per serving for this Creamy Chicken Orzo with Spinach, Tomatoes, and Basil Pesto, calculated using standard ingredients. Actual values can vary based on specific brands and measurements used.

Healthier Alternatives

This creamy chicken orzo with spinach, tomatoes, and basil pesto is wonderfully adaptable. Here are several ingredient swaps to tailor it to different dietary needs or simply change up the flavors.

• Protein Swap (Turkey or Shrimp) — Use ground turkey for a leaner option, or quickly sautéed shrimp for a lighter, briny twist on this creamy chicken orzo.
• Lower-Carb Option (Cauliflower Rice) — Replace the orzo with riced cauliflower. Sauté it briefly before adding the liquid to maintain texture and soak up the creamy pesto sauce.
• Dairy-Free Creaminess (Coconut Milk) — Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat canned coconut milk. It provides a rich, slightly sweet base that pairs beautifully with the basil pesto.
• Gluten-Free (GF Pasta or Quinoa) — Use a certified gluten-free orzo or small pasta shape. For a whole-grain alternative, cooked quinoa works well and adds a nutty flavor.
• Low-Sodium (Homemade Pesto & Broth) — Control salt by making your own basil pesto and using a no-salt-added or low-sodium chicken broth as the base for the sauce.
• Vegetarian (Chickpeas or White Beans) — Omit the chicken and add a can of drained chickpeas or white beans with the spinach for a hearty, plant-based protein boost.
• Extra Greens (Kale or Arugula) — Swap the spinach for chopped kale (add it earlier to wilt) or peppery arugula (stir in at the very end) for a different green profile.
• Cheese Variation (Goat Cheese or Feta) — Instead of Parmesan, crumble in tangy goat cheese or salty feta just before serving for a new flavor dimension in your creamy orzo.

Serving Suggestions

• For a complete meal, pair this creamy chicken orzo with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• This dish is perfect for casual weeknight dinners, elegant date nights at home, or as a comforting meal-prep option that reheats beautifully.
• Serve it family-style in a large, shallow bowl to showcase the vibrant colors of the spinach, tomatoes, and pesto.
• Garnish with extra fresh basil, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, and a crack of black pepper just before serving for a restaurant-quality finish.
• For a lighter pairing, serve alongside roasted asparagus, steamed green beans, or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

This versatile creamy chicken orzo is a crowd-pleaser that adapts easily to any table setting, from a quick family supper to a more gathered occasion.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Overcooking the orzo into mush. Fix: Cook it al dente in the broth, as it will continue to absorb liquid and soften while resting.
• Mistake: Using raw, unseasoned chicken. Fix: Generously season the chicken before searing to build a flavorful fond in the pan.
• Mistake: Adding spinach too early. Fix: Stir in fresh spinach at the very end, letting residual heat wilt it to maintain vibrant color and texture.
• Mistake: Drowning the dish with heavy cream. Fix: Achieve creaminess by letting the starchy orzo release into the broth and using a modest amount of dairy or pesto.
• Mistake: Using watery, out-of-season tomatoes. Fix: Opt for sweet cherry or sun-dried tomatoes for a concentrated burst of flavor that won’t water down the sauce.
• Mistake: Stirring in pesto while cooking over high heat. Fix: Fold the basil pesto in off the heat to preserve its fresh, herbal essence and bright green color.
• Mistake: Not deglazing the pan after searing chicken. Fix: Use white wine or broth to scrape up the browned bits (fond), which is essential for a rich, deep sauce base.
• Mistake: Skipping the rest time before serving. Fix: Let the creamy chicken orzo sit for 5 minutes off the heat; this allows the sauce to thicken perfectly.
• Mistake: Using a bland, store-bought broth. Fix: A quality, low-sodium chicken broth is the foundation of this dish’s flavor, so choose it wisely.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool the creamy chicken orzo completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It will keep for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Gently reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring in a splash of broth or water to restore the creamy consistency. You can also use the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

The spinach may wilt further upon reheating, but the flavors of this creamy chicken orzo with spinach, tomatoes, and basil pesto will remain delicious.

Conclusion

This Creamy Chicken Orzo with Spinach, Tomatoes, and Basil Pesto is a complete, satisfying meal that comes together in one pan. For another delicious orzo dish, try our Spinach and Mushroom Orzo in Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe. We hope you love this recipe—please leave a comment with your review!

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FAQs

Can I make this Creamy Chicken Orzo with Spinach, Tomatoes, and Basil Pesto ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead, but the orzo will continue to absorb liquid. For best results, store components separately and combine just before serving. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream to restore the creamy texture.

What can I use instead of heavy cream for a lighter version?

For a lighter Creamy Chicken Orzo, substitute full-fat coconut milk or half-and-half. You can also use a roux made with flour and broth, though the sauce will be less rich. The pesto and tomatoes will still provide excellent flavor.

How do I prevent the orzo from becoming mushy?

Cook the orzo just until al dente in the sauce, as it will continue to soften off the heat. Ensure you use the correct liquid-to-orzo ratio and avoid overcooking. This keeps the texture perfect in your Creamy Chicken Orzo with Spinach, Tomatoes, and Basil Pesto.