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Best Orzo Dinner Recipe

Creamy orzo pasta with chicken spinach and artichokes in a bowl.
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This is the ultimate one-pan comfort meal. Tender chicken and toasted orzo simmer in a rich, creamy sauce with tomatoes, artichokes, and spinach for a dinner that feels indulgent yet comes together quickly with pantry staples.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices
  • 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
  • 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides. Remove to a plate.
  2. In the same skillet, add the diced onion. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the uncooked orzo to the skillet. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes to toast lightly.
  4. Pour in the diced tomatoes with juices, artichoke hearts, and broth. Stir in oregano and thyme. Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook for 10 minutes.
  5. Uncover and stir in the spinach until wilted. Add the seared chicken back to the skillet along with any juices.
  6. Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over everything. Stir gently until cheese is melted and a creamy sauce forms. Simmer uncovered for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  7. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan before serving.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, omit chicken and use vegetable broth. Add a can of drained white beans with the spinach. Toasting the orzo is key to prevent a gummy texture. Letting the dish rest before serving allows the sauce to thicken perfectly.

Nutrition

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