Chicken Orzo with Spinach, Cherry Tomatoes, and Basil Pesto
A delightful dish combining tender chicken, orzo pasta, fresh spinach, and cherry tomatoes in a flavorful basil pesto.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Protein-rich
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add the diced chicken to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add the orzo and chicken broth; stir to combine and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until orzo is tender, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the spinach and basil pesto until spinach wilts and everything is well combined.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
For best results, use fresh ingredients and adjust seasonings to taste. Add a splash of chicken broth when reheating leftovers to maintain moisture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: chicken, orzo, pesto, spinach, cherry tomatoes, easy dinner, comfort food