If you’ve been searching for a dish that’s comforting, flavorful, and just a little bit fancy without the fuss, this Boursin Orzo with Chicken Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Creamy, rich Boursin cheese melts into tender orzo tossed with vibrant spinach and perfectly seasoned chicken breasts for a meal that feels indulgent but comes together in no time. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, balancing fresh herbs, cheesy decadence, and savory chicken, making each bite a delightful experience you’ll want to revisit again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role, creating layers of flavor and texture that make the dish shine. The simplicity of the ingredients means they’re easy to source, but each brings something special—from the silky richness of the Boursin cheese to the fresh bright notes of spinach, all enhanced by tender chicken and nutty orzo.
- Olive oil: For searing chicken perfectly golden and adding a subtle fruity base flavor.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean protein star, seasoned to deliver maximum flavor and juicy texture.
- Garlic powder: Adds a warm, savory depth without overpowering other herbs.
- Paprika: Brings a gentle smoky sweetness and attractive color to the chicken.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other ingredients.
- Orzo pasta: Small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully.
- Chicken broth: The cooking liquid that infuses the orzo with savory goodness.
- Heavy cream: Adds luscious creaminess to the sauce, marrying all the flavors together.
- Boursin cheese (Garlic & Fine Herbs flavor): The star ingredient delivering a creamy texture packed with fresh herb and garlic aroma.
- Fresh spinach: Adds vibrant green color and a tender, leafy contrast to the creamy orzo.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): A nutty, salty finishing touch if you love an extra layer of cheesy richness.
- Fresh parsley (optional): Brightens the dish visually and adds a fresh burst of flavor.
How to Make Boursin Orzo with Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to get a nice, even sear. While the oil warms, season your chicken breasts generously with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This seasoning mix will infuse the chicken with savory, aromatic notes. Then, add the chicken to the pan and cook each side for 4 to 5 minutes until golden brown and completely cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside—don’t worry, the pan magic isn’t over yet!
Step 2: Toast and Simmer the Orzo
Using the same skillet, toss in the orzo pasta and toast it for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly. This simple step brings out a subtle nuttiness in the orzo and adds depth to the final dish. Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and let the orzo cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and perfectly creamy from absorbing the broth.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Boursin Sauce
Turn the heat down to low and stir in the heavy cream along with the whole package of Boursin cheese. Watch as the cheese melts smoothly into the orzo, transforming it into an irresistibly creamy sauce packed with garlic and herb flavors. This part is where all the creamy indulgence develops—take a moment to enjoy the aroma filling your kitchen.
Step 4: Add Spinach and Finish
Now add the chopped fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook just 1 to 2 minutes until the spinach wilts and blends beautifully into the creamy orzo sauce. Return the seared chicken breasts to the pan, nestling them among the sauce and spinach to warm through. This last step ensures every bite of chicken is infused with that luscious, herby creaminess.
How to Serve Boursin Orzo with Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty crunch that elevates the dish even more. Fresh parsley chopped on top not only brightens the color but also adds a refreshing herbal note that balances the richness. These finishing touches make your plate look as inviting as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but if you want to round out your meal, consider serving it with a crisp green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables. Light, fresh sides like steamed asparagus or a lemon-dressed arugula salad provide a lovely contrast to the creamy orzo, creating a balanced, satisfying dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, try plating the orzo in a shallow bowl with the chicken breast sliced and fanned on top. Drizzle a little extra olive oil or a handful of toasted pine nuts for texture. If you’re entertaining, serve family-style in a warm skillet or beautiful serving dish so everyone can dig in and enjoy that fresh-out-of-the-pan appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Boursin Orzo with Chicken Recipe leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making for an incredibly satisfying next-day meal.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but keep in mind that the texture of the creamy sauce might change slightly. For best results, freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month, making sure to cool it completely before freezing.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce thickens too much. Avoid high heat to keep the creaminess smooth and prevent the cheese from separating.
FAQs
Can I use another type of cheese instead of Boursin?
While Boursin provides a unique creamy texture and herb flavor, you can substitute with cream cheese mixed with garlic and herbs or a soft goat cheese for a similar effect. The flavor will be a little different but still delicious.
Is this recipe suitable for weeknight dinners?
Absolutely! The Boursin Orzo with Chicken Recipe is relatively quick and straightforward to prepare, making it perfectly suited for a cozy weeknight meal that feels special but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and add roasted vegetables or mushrooms for a satisfying substitute. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth, and the creamy Boursin sauce will still shine.
What’s the best way to get perfectly cooked chicken breasts?
Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to help achieve a nice sear. Cook over medium heat without moving the breasts too much so they develop a golden crust. Using a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F will guarantee juicy, fully cooked chicken.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
You can prepare the orzo and sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to add the spinach and chicken just before serving to maintain freshness and texture. Reheat gently on the stovetop for the best results.
Final Thoughts
This Boursin Orzo with Chicken Recipe combines comfort and elegance effortlessly, making it a fantastic addition to your weeknight rotation or a go-to for impressing guests with minimal effort. The creamy, herb-infused sauce paired with tender chicken and vibrant spinach offers a delicious harmony that’s as satisfying as it is simple. Give it a try—you’ll soon wonder how you ever lived without it!
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Boursin Orzo with Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This creamy and flavorful Boursin Orzo with Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts seared to perfection, combined with orzo pasta cooked in savory chicken broth and blended with rich Boursin cheese and fresh spinach. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s a comforting one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights that delivers a creamy texture with a delicious blend of herbs and garlic.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Pasta and Sauce
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 package (5.2 oz) Boursin cheese (Garlic & Fine Herbs flavor)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Season and Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts evenly with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Toast the Orzo: In the same skillet with the pan drippings, add the orzo pasta. Toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to enhance its nutty flavor.
- Simmer Orzo in Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and cook the orzo for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Add Cream and Boursin Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and the Boursin cheese, mixing until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Wilt Spinach: Add the chopped fresh spinach to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted, incorporating its fresh flavor into the creamy sauce.
- Reheat Chicken: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the orzo mixture. Warm everything together for a few minutes until the chicken is heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the dish and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving for added flavor and color.
Notes
- You can substitute spinach with kale or other leafy greens if preferred.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- If you prefer a tangier flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
