Print

Creamy Chicken Orzo with Spinach, Tomatoes, and Basil Pesto

Print Recipe

This easy one-pan creamy chicken orzo features tender chicken, orzo pasta, fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, and basil pesto in a rich cream sauce. Ready in 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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
  • 1/3 cup basil pesto
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Season chicken breasts with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil if needed, minced garlic, and cherry tomatoes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes. Stir in uncooked orzo, Italian seasoning, and salt. Pour in chicken stock, bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender.
  3. Stir in spinach during the last 2-3 minutes until wilted. Add heavy cream and basil pesto, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper. If too dry, add a splash of chicken stock and cream. Return chicken to the skillet, nestle on top, and reheat gently. Garnish with fresh basil and serve.

Notes

Stir spinach in at the end to keep it vibrant and not mushy. Use homemade or store-bought basil pesto for best flavor. Leftovers reheat well with a splash of cream to restore creaminess.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.rapidrecipes.blog/creamy-chicken-orzo-spinach-tomatoes/