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Boursin Orzo with Chicken Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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