Discover the 'One-Pan Wonder: Savory Spinach & Chicken Orzo Delight' recipe, featuring succulent chicken, fresh spinach, and flavorful orzo for an easy, irresistible meal!
One-Pan Wonder: Savory Spinach & Chicken Orzo Delight
If you're looking for a quick and satisfying meal that doesn't skimp on flavor, this One-Pan Wonder: Savory Spinach & Chicken Orzo Delight is perfect for you. With minimal cleanup and maximum taste, it's an ideal dish for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers. This dish blends the tender goodness of chicken with creamy orzo, fresh spinach, and a medley of spices to create a meal that's sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup (200g) orzo pasta
- 2 cups (480ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240ml) water
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups (120g) fresh spinach, washed and dried
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
Preparation: Begin by organizing all your ingredients. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic. Ensure your spinach is washed and set aside to dry.
Cook the Chicken: In a large, deep skillet or sauté pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken pieces. Season them with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and half the oregano and thyme. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Cook the Orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta with the sautéed onions and garlic. Toast the orzo by stirring continuously for about 2 minutes until it begins to take on a golden color. This step adds a nutty flavor to the orzo.
Add the Broth and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and water. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits at the bottom of the pan for added flavor. Add the remaining oregano and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Incorporate Spinach & Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the pan, including any juices that have accumulated. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves, allowing them to wilt gently into the mixture. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Season and Add Lemon: Turn off the heat. Add the lemon zest and juice, stirring well to combine. If desired, season with additional salt and pepper to taste. The lemon will add a refreshing brightness that complements the savory flavors of the dish.
Finish with Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the orzo mixture, and gently fold it in until melted and creamy. This will add a rich, umami flavor that ties all the components together beautifully.
Serve: Transfer the Savory Spinach & Chicken Orzo Delight into serving bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Conclusion:
This One-Pan Wonder: Savory Spinach & Chicken Orzo Delight is a delicious and practical solution for busy days when you crave a wholesome, home-cooked meal without the hassle. The tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and creamy orzo come together with a burst of lemon and a hint of Parmesan in a dish that’s both comforting and refined. Enjoy this flavorful delight any night of the week, and bask in the minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction that this recipe promises.