Easy Weeknight Pasta Dish

This Boursin orzo with chicken delivers creamy, herb-infused comfort in a single pot with minimal effort. The rice-shaped pasta creates a risotto-like consistency without the constant stirring, while the melted Boursin cheese forms an irresistibly rich sauce that coats every bite. With tender chicken and wilted spinach folded in at the end, this 30-minute meal offers a perfect balance of convenience and sophistication for busy weeknights.

I make this dish regularly during hectic weeks when I need something that feels special but requires minimal effort. Recently, I served it to unexpected dinner guests and they were amazed such a luxurious-tasting meal came together so quickly!

Essential Ingredients

• For the Flavor Base:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Creates the sautéing foundation
• 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and helps prevent olive oil from burning
• 1 medium onion: Sweet or yellow variety provides aromatic foundation
• 3 cloves garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds essential depth
• For the Creamy Pasta:
• 1½ cups orzo pasta: The star ingredient that absorbs all the flavors
• 3½ cups chicken broth: Infuses savory flavor throughout
• 1 package (5.2 oz) Boursin cheese: Garlic & Fine Herbs variety melts into perfect sauce
• 2 cups baby spinach: Adds color, nutrition, and fresh contrast
• 2 cups cooked chicken: Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor

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Detailed Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Create Your Flavor Foundation

Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat until butter melts and begins to foam. Add diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent but not browned. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. This aromatic base sets the stage for all the flavors to follow.

Step 2: Toast the Orzo

Add dry orzo to the pot and stir to coat with the oil mixture. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until some pieces begin to turn light golden. This toasting step adds a nutty dimension to the finished dish and helps the orzo maintain its texture during cooking.

Step 3: Simmer to Perfection

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to maintain a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. The orzo will gradually absorb the broth while releasing its starch, creating a naturally creamy consistency similar to risotto, but with much less effort.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

When most of the liquid has been absorbed and the orzo is tender, add the Boursin cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese completely melts into a smooth, creamy sauce that coats each piece of pasta. The heat should be low at this point to prevent scorching.

Step 5: Incorporate Final Elements

Remove the pot from heat and fold in the cooked chicken and fresh spinach. Cover the pot and let it sit for 5 minutes. This gentle heat will warm the chicken through and wilt the spinach without overcooking either ingredient. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Adjust Consistency and Serve

Before serving, check the consistency of your dish. If it seems too thick, add a splash of warm chicken broth to loosen it slightly. The orzo will continue to absorb liquid as it sits, so serve promptly for the ideal creamy texture.

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I've discovered that adding the Boursin in smaller pieces rather than all at once helps it melt more evenly into a smooth sauce without clumping. This simple technique makes a noticeable difference in the final texture.

Make-Ahead Tips

This dish is best made fresh, but you can prepare all your ingredients ahead of time - chop the onion, mince the garlic, and have your chicken ready to go. When dinner time arrives, you'll have everything at your fingertips for quick assembly.

After making this countless times, I've found that the key to success lies in the cooking of the orzo itself. Stirring frequently prevents sticking while allowing the pasta to release its starch gradually, creating that perfect creamy consistency that makes this dish so comforting yet sophisticated. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity - just a handful of quality ingredients coming together to create something truly special with minimal effort.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, you can substitute small pasta shapes like small shells or stelline, but you may need to adjust cooking time according to package directions.

→ What can I use instead of Boursin cheese?

If Boursin isn't available, you can use cream cheese mixed with your favorite herbs, or goat cheese for a similar creamy texture.

→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add extra vegetables like mushrooms or peas for more substance.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or milk as the pasta will continue to absorb liquid.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

This dish isn't ideal for freezing as the pasta and cream sauce may separate when thawed. It's best enjoyed fresh or as refrigerated leftovers.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This one-pot meal is complete on its own, but a simple green salad or roasted vegetables make great side dishes if you want to round out the meal.