Boursin Orzo with Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Boursin Orzo with Chicken is a creamy, comforting dish that combines tender chicken breasts with savory orzo pasta and flavorful Boursin cheese. This easy-to-make meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve guests.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 package (5.2 oz) Boursin cheese (Garlic & Fine Herbs flavor)
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub this seasoning evenly over each chicken breast.
2. Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add the uncooked orzo. Toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 8-10 minutes until orzo is tender and most broth is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Step 5: Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream and Boursin cheese until creamy and well combined.
6. Step 6: Add chopped spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
7. Step 7: Return the chicken to the skillet and warm through for a couple of minutes.
8. Step 8: Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for perfect juiciness without overcooking.
• Substitute Boursin with creamy goat cheese or cream cheese for different flavors.
• Add herbs like thyme or rosemary at the start to deepen the flavor.
• For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a plant-based cream alternative.
• Try adding roasted cherry tomatoes, sautéed bell peppers, or swapping spinach for kale or arugula for variety.
• Sprinkle red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove to maintain the creamy texture and avoid overcooking the chicken.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What is Boursin cheese?

Boursin cheese is a creamy, soft cheese made from cow’s milk, flavored with herbs and garlic. It has a rich texture and smooth flavor, perfect for spreading or cooking.

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with small pasta shapes like ditalini or even use rice for a different texture and flavor.

Boursin Orzo with Chicken Recipe

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4.5 from 121 reviews

Boursin Orzo with Chicken is a creamy, comforting one-pan meal featuring tender, seasoned chicken breasts seared to golden perfection and nestled in a rich sauce made from toasted orzo, chicken broth, heavy cream, and flavorful Boursin cheese. Enhanced with fresh spinach and optionally garnished with Parmesan and parsley, this dish balances hearty protein with a smooth, herby pasta base, making it a perfect easy dinner solution that’s both satisfying and elegant.

• Author: Rami
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Seasoning

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Orzo and Sauce

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 package (5.2 oz) Boursin cheese (Garlic & Fine Herbs flavor)
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub this seasoning blend evenly over all sides of each chicken breast to ensure full flavor penetration.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts carefully. Sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Toast the Orzo: Using the same skillet, add the uncooked orzo pasta. Toast it for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly so it absorbs the pan flavors and becomes lightly golden.
4. Simmer the Orzo: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cover the skillet and let the orzo cook for 8-10 minutes until tender and most broth has been absorbed. Stir occasionally and monitor to prevent sticking.
5. Add Cream and Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and Boursin cheese, mixing until the cheese has melted and a creamy sauce forms.
6. Incorporate Spinach: Add chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted and fully incorporated into the sauce.
7. Return the Chicken: Nestle the cooked chicken breasts back into the creamy orzo mixture and warm through for 2-3 minutes to blend flavors.
8. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley over the dish if desired. Serve warm directly from the skillet or plated elegantly.

Notes

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safe and juicy results.
• Substitute Boursin cheese with cream cheese or goat cheese if preferred.
• Add herbs like thyme or rosemary during seasoning for extra aroma.
• For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt or plant-based cream alternatives.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat gently on the stove to avoid drying out the chicken.

Keywords: Boursin orzo, chicken recipes, creamy pasta dish, easy dinner, one pot meal, skillet chicken, herbed cheese pasta