Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Chicken Orzo with Spinach, Cherry Tomatoes, and Basil Pesto


  • Author: amanda-miller
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Poultry

Description

A comforting meal featuring tender chicken, orzo, and vibrant vegetables, perfect for busy weeknights.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound chicken breast, diced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet.
  2. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the orzo and cook for another minute.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
  5. Add the cherry tomatoes and spinach, stirring until the spinach has wilted, about 3 minutes.
  6. Stir in the basil pesto until fully combined.
  7. Cook until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, about 10-12 minutes.
  8. Serve warm, topped with grated parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

Prep ingredients beforehand for a smoother cooking process. Avoid overcrowding the pan while cooking the chicken for even results.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg