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Skillet Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Orzo Recipe

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4.1 from 12 reviews

A creamy, flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender chicken, savory orzo pasta, fresh spinach, and marinated artichokes, all cooked together in a skillet for a quick and comforting dinner.

Ingredients

Protein and Seasoning

  • 1 pound boneless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 teaspoons Italian seasoning, divided
  • Chili flakes, to taste
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Aromatics and Base

  • 1 shallot, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons salted butter

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
  • 1 cup milk or heavy cream
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 jar (12 ounces) marinated artichokes, quartered
  • 2 cups baby spinach

Finishing Touches

  • 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 teaspoons lemon zest
  • Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the chicken: Combine the cubed chicken, olive oil, and 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning in a large skillet. Season with salt and black pepper. Heat over medium-high heat and cook for about 5 minutes until the chicken is mostly cooked through.
  2. Add aromatics and orzo: Add the chopped shallots, garlic, and butter to the skillet. Stir in the orzo pasta, fresh thyme, and remaining 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the orzo turns lightly golden, about 2 minutes. Pour in 1 1/2 cups of water, bring to a boil, and cook for 5 minutes.
  3. Incorporate cream and mustard: Stir in the milk or heavy cream and Dijon mustard, mixing well to combine all the flavors.
  4. Add vegetables and cheese: Mix in the baby spinach, marinated artichokes, grated parmesan cheese, and lemon zest. Continue cooking for another 8 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the orzo is cooked al dente.
  5. Finish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish generously with fresh basil and extra parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy your delicious skillet spinach and artichoke chicken orzo!

Notes

  • Use heavy cream for a richer dish or milk for a lighter version.
  • Adjust chili flakes according to your heat preference.
  • Make sure not to overcook the orzo; it should be al dente for the best texture.
  • Fresh herbs like basil and thyme enhance flavor but can be substituted with dried if needed.
  • This recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/skillet-spinach-and-artichoke-chicken-orzo-recipe/