Boursin Orzo with Chicken

This creamy Boursin Orzo with Chicken is pure comfort food perfect for busy nights or when you want dinner to feel a little special. You get juicy chicken tucked into rich orzo laced with herby Boursin cheese that melts into a silky sauce. Everything happens in one pan, making cleanup a breeze and letting the flavors blend beautifully.

Ingredients

• Olive oil: Adds richness and is perfect for searing chicken Choose a fresh bottle for the best flavor
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cooks up quickly and stays juicy Opt for uniform sizes so they cook evenly
• Garlic powder: Effortlessly adds savory depth Try to use a fresh jar so the flavor pops
• Paprika: Gives warmth and color Choose sweet or smoked depending on your preference
• Salt and black pepper: Balances all the flavors Freshly cracked pepper gives extra zip
• Orzo pasta: These tender rice shaped pasta pieces soak up all the creamy sauce Look for quality brands for best texture
• Chicken broth: Infuses every bite with flavor Use low sodium if you want more control over salt
• Heavy cream: Makes the sauce extra rich and silky Fresh heavy cream works best
• Boursin cheese: The garlic and fine herbs variety is packed with herby flavor and melts into the sauce Pick up a cold pack from the cheese section for best texture
• Fresh spinach: Adds color and a boost of greens Choose crisp leaves without wilting or yellowing
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds cheesy finish and even more richness Only use real Parmigiano Reggiano for best results if possible
• Fresh parsley: Gives a burst of color and freshness Opt for flat leaf for top flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Chicken:

Pat the chicken breasts dry and coat them evenly with garlic powder paprika salt and pepper Make sure to rub the seasonings into each piece so the flavor really soaks in

Sear the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Once shimmering lay chicken breasts in the pan Sear for four to five minutes per side until both sides are golden and the centers read one hundred sixty five degrees on a thermometer Move the cooked chicken to a plate to rest

Toast the Orzo:

In the same skillet pour in the orzo Stir constantly for one to two minutes until it starts smelling a little nutty and turns slightly golden This toasting step deepens the flavor of the pasta

Simmer the Orzo:

Pour in chicken broth Turn the heat to medium and bring to a gentle simmer Cover with a lid and cook for eight to ten minutes stirring once or twice The orzo should be tender and most of the broth absorbed

Make the Creamy Sauce:

Drop the heat to low Pour in the heavy cream and dollop in the Boursin cheese Use a wooden spoon to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and velvety

Add the Spinach:

Scatter chopped spinach over the orzo Stir gently for one to two minutes until the spinach is wilted and bright green

Finish with Chicken:

Nestle the cooked chicken back into the skillet Warm it through for a minute or two so everything is hot

Garnish and Serve:

Sprinkle grated Parmesan and chopped parsley over the top for a fresh finish Serve straight from the pan so everyone can scoop up the creamy orzo and chicken

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Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days Add a splash of chicken broth or cream before reheating to revive the creamy sauce For best texture avoid microwaving for too long as orzo can get mushy

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap the chicken for shrimp turkey or even mushrooms for a vegetarian spin You can substitute baby kale for spinach or use a different soft herbed cheese if Boursin is not available For extra veggies toss in diced zucchini or bell peppers when you add the orzo

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal Warm crusty bread is perfect for scooping up the last bits of creamy sauce This dish also pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon

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Cultural Context

While orzo is often linked with Mediterranean and Italian cooking Boursin is a French cheese That mix of influences makes this dish a delicious melting pot of creamy herbed flavors and tender pasta It is classic comfort with a little French flair

Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe

→ Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Try substituting shrimp, turkey, or mushrooms for chicken to change things up and add variety in flavor and texture.

→ What type of Boursin cheese works best?

The garlic & fine herbs variety melts well and provides robust, herby notes that complement the orzo and chicken perfectly.

→ How do I keep the orzo from sticking?

Sauté the orzo in olive oil before simmering. Stir occasionally as it cooks with broth to prevent sticking and promote even texture.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Yes! Stir in chopped zucchini, bell peppers, or tomatoes along with the spinach for added nutrition and color.

→ How should I store and reheat leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.