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Spinach Mushroom Orzo with Chicken

Spinach Mushroom Orzo with Chicken for Cozy Family Nights

A delightful one-pan meal blending tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant spinach in orzo pasta, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs Substitute with turkey or tofu for variety.
For the Orzo Base
  • 1 cup orzo pasta Use gluten-free alternatives like quinoa or rice if needed.
  • 2.5 cups chicken broth Vegetable broth can work for a vegetarian version.
For the Vegetables
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Avocado oil makes a great substitute.
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped Yellow or sweet onions are perfect swaps.
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced Fresh is best, but powdered works in a pinch.
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms Any kind of mushroom will shine here.
  • 3-4 cups fresh spinach Baby kale or Swiss chard can be nice alternatives.
For Seasoning
  • salt and freshly ground black pepper Essential for enhancing all flavors; adjust to your taste.
  • pinch red pepper flakes Optional, feel free to omit if preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning Elevates the aroma and flavor profile.
To Finish
  • 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese Pecorino Romano or aged cheddar also work well.
  • fresh lemon juice/zest Optional, brightens the dish's flavors.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper, then cook for about 6-8 minutes until browned and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, then toss in 1 small finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
  3. Stir in 2-3 minced garlic cloves and 1 cup of sliced mushrooms. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the mushrooms are browned and tender.
  4. Add 1 cup of orzo pasta to the skillet and toast for about 1 minute. Then pour in 2½ cups of chicken broth and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, stirring until well combined. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Cover the skillet and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  6. Return the sautéed chicken to the pan and add 3-4 cups of fresh spinach. Gently stir until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
  7. Mix in ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, adjusting the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for an additional minute until the cheese melts into the dish.
  8. Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and a splash of fresh lemon juice or zest, if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For the best experience, savor this comforting Spinach Mushroom Orzo with Chicken within a few days of making it.

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