If you’re looking for quick and tasty dinners, orzo is your new best friend! This tiny pasta cooks up fast and adds a fun twist to favorite dishes like salads, soups, or baked casseroles.
In my kitchen, orzo gets plenty of love because it’s so easy to use. Just boil, toss in some veggies or protein, and you’ve got a delicious meal ready in no time. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This rice-shaped pasta is perfect for this dish. If you’re out, you can use small pasta like ditalini or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth adds great flavor, but store-bought works just as well. For a lighter option, you could use vegetable broth.
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my favorite hack for quick meals. You can also use leftovers or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist!
Fresh Spinach: Baby spinach wilts nicely and has a mild flavor. If you don’t have it, kale can be a good substitute; just chop it smaller and cook a bit longer.
Cherry Tomatoes: Their sweetness brightens the dish. If they’re not in season, use diced canned tomatoes instead, but reduce cooking time slightly.
How Do I Ensure the Orzo Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking orzo might seem simple, but timing is key! Follow these steps for perfectly cooked orzo:
- Bring the broth to a rolling boil before adding the orzo to avoid clumping.
- Stir occasionally as it cooks. This helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking.
- Check the pasta a minute or so earlier than the package suggests to avoid overcooking. It should be al dente, or slightly firm to the bite.
Easy Chicken and Spinach Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken and spinach orzo will take about 20 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the orzo and combining everything, plus it’s quick and hassle-free!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Start by bringing the chicken broth to a boil in a large pot or Dutch oven. Once it’s bubbling, add the orzo pasta and cook it according to the package instructions, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Make sure to watch it so it doesn’t overcook!
2. Add Garlic and Spinach:
With about 2 minutes left of the orzo cooking time, add the minced garlic and the roughly chopped spinach to the pot. Stir everything together gently and let the spinach wilt down into the mix—it won’t take long!
3. Combine Chicken and Tomatoes:
Once the orzo is cooked, if there’s any excess liquid, carefully drain it. Then, add in your shredded chicken and halved cherry tomatoes to the pot. Give everything a good stir to combine all the yummy ingredients.
4. Season and Serve:
Drizzle your dish with olive oil and sprinkle in the dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Mix everything well until it’s heated through and evenly coated.
5. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve your hot orzo in bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. Dig in and enjoy this quick and delightful meal!
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta Instead of Orzo?
Absolutely! If you don’t have orzo on hand, small pasta shapes like ditalini, couscous, or even quinoa work well too. Just adjust the cooking time according to the specific pasta you choose, as some may take longer or shorter to cook.
What Can I Substitute for Cooked Chicken?
If you don’t have cooked chicken, feel free to use rotisserie chicken for a quick option, or substitute with cooked chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian version. Just make sure to adjust the seasonings as needed to complement the new protein choice!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it from drying out.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! This recipe is flexible. You can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or peas. Just make sure to add them in with the garlic so they have enough time to cook through and flavor the dish!
