It is 6pm and you are tired. Your family is hungry for something warm and cozy. This creamy boursin orzo is your answer. It is a one-pot meal that feels like a hug. You can have it on the table in just 30 minutes.
This dish is perfect for a chilly winter evening. It delivers a rich, restaurant-quality taste with very little effort. You will love how the garlic and herbs blend together. It is fresh and filling for everyone.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a true game-changer for busy families. You only need one pan for the entire meal. This means minimal cleanup after a long day. It is also packed with high-quality protein to keep you satisfied.
The Boursin cheese creates a sauce that is naturally thick and velvety. You do not need to make a complex roux. It is beginner-friendly and consistently delicious every single time. Your holiday guests would even love this as a side!
Simple Method
Cooking this meal is as simple as it gets. You start by searing the chicken for a golden crust. Then, you toast the orzo to bring out a nutty flavor. Everything simmers together in one skillet until tender. Even if you are new to cooking, you can master this.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple ingredients combine to create a sophisticated flavor profile in no time.
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cups dried orzo pasta
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 5.2 oz Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs Gournay Cheese
- 5 oz fresh baby spinach
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Step-by-Step Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Season chicken cubes with salt and pepper, then sear in the skillet until browned and cooked through, approximately 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the dried orzo to the skillet and toast for 2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in the Boursin cheese until fully melted and incorporated into a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Fold in the fresh baby spinach and stir until wilted from the residual heat.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir in the lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Serve immediately.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this warm in shallow bowls for a cozy night in. You can pair it with a crisp side salad. A piece of crusty bread is great for soaking up the sauce. Set the table, light a candle, and enjoy this with your family. It feels like a special occasion meal any night.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water. This helps restore the creaminess of the sauce. Heat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. It makes a fantastic easy weekday lunch the next day.
Tips for Best Results
- Do not skip toasting the orzo for the best flavor.
- Avoid overcooking the orzo so it stays slightly firm.
- Use fresh baby spinach for a vibrant, tender texture.
- Stir the Boursin in slowly until it is completely smooth.
- Add the lemon juice at the very end for brightness.
- Deglaze the pan with broth to get every tasty bit.
- Keep the heat low when adding the cheese to prevent curdling.
Easy Flavor Ideas
- Swap chicken for shrimp for a faster cooking time.
- Use sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.
- Try red pepper flakes if you want a little heat.
- Add roasted butternut squash for a seasonal fall variation.
Common Questions
Can I use a different cheese?
Boursin is best for that specific garlic and herb flavor. However, plain cream cheese with extra herbs works too. You might need more salt if you swap it.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, it holds up very well in the refrigerator. Just remember to add a little liquid when reheating. This keeps the creamy boursin orzo from getting too dry.
I hope this warm and creamy meal brings a little peace to your busy evening. It is the perfect way to end a winter day with the people you love.
— Katie Wood
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cups dried orzo pasta
- 4 cups low -sodium chicken broth
- 5.2 oz Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs Gournay Cheese
- 5 oz fresh baby spinach
- 3 cloves garlic , minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Season chicken cubes with salt and pepper, then sear in the skillet until browned and cooked through, approximately 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the dried orzo to the skillet and toast for 2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in the Boursin cheese until fully melted and incorporated into a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Fold in the fresh baby spinach and stir until wilted from the residual heat.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir in the lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Serve immediately.
