Description
A wholesome and irresistible one-skillet Mediterranean-inspired dinner featuring tender chicken, juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh spinach, and herby pesto stirred into golden orzo. This Chicken Spinach Tomato Orzo is flavorful, balanced, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1½ tsp kosher salt, divided
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1½ cups orzo pasta, uncooked
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- ⅓ cup basil pesto, store-bought or homemade
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Optional: grated parmesan cheese, for garnish
Instructions
- Season the diced chicken with 1 tsp salt and black pepper. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally until golden and fully cooked. Transfer to a plate.
- Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Stir in the orzo and toast it for 2–3 minutes, until it becomes golden and nutty.
- Stir in minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 1–2 minutes until aromatic and softened.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Increase heat, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring often.
- Stir in the spinach and cooked chicken. Let everything simmer for 2 more minutes until the spinach wilts and the chicken is warmed through.
- Remove from heat. Stir in pesto and a squeeze of lemon. Adjust salt to taste. Garnish with parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Toast the orzo first for a richer flavor and better texture.
- Don’t overcook—check pasta early to keep it al dente.
- Use fresh spinach for best results; if using frozen, drain well.
- Good-quality pesto makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Leftovers work well as a pasta salad with added feta or cucumbers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pot Skillet
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl