Creamy Chicken Orzo

This Creamy Chicken Orzo is a symphony of flavors, textures, and colors. Juicy chicken seasoned with aromatic herbs, nestled in a bed of tender orzo pasta, and bathed in a luscious creamy pesto sauce. The addition of fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes not only adds a pop of color but also a nutritional boost, making this dish as wholesome as it is delicious.

Ingredients:

-Chicken:
1.5 lb chicken breasts, skinless, boneless
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
-Orzo:
1 cup orzo, uncooked
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
10 oz cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
2 cups chicken stock
1/4 teaspoon salt
5 oz fresh spinach
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup basil pesto

Directions:

Sear chicken: Slice chicken breasts into thinner strips. Season generously with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil and cook chicken for about 3 minutes per side. Remove to a plate.
Cook orzo: In the same skillet, add orzo, garlic, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Cook for 2 minutes until browned. Add chicken stock, half of the cherry tomatoes, and salt. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 5-10 minutes. Add spinach and remaining tomatoes, cooking until spinach wilts.
Combine: Stir in heavy cream and basil pesto. Return chicken to the skillet and simmer until heated through.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Kcal: 659 | Servings: 4