Introduction

This creamy Boursin Orzo with Chicken is a comforting one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender orzo pasta cooked in flavorful broth combines with creamy Boursin cheese, fresh spinach, and juicy chicken for a delicious and simple dish your whole family will love.

A close-up of a creamy orzo pasta dish in a white bowl, showing three main layers: the yellowish orzo pasta with a smooth, slightly glossy texture spread evenly as the base, tender white shredded chicken pieces mixed throughout, and bright green spinach leaves scattered on top. The dish is coated in a rich, white cream sauce that adds a soft sheen over the ingredients. Small, finely chopped green herbs are sprinkled across the top, adding contrast and freshness, with a few specks of black pepper visible. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface, enhancing the fresh and homemade look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
2.5 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 (5.2 oz) package Boursin cheese, softened
2 cups packed fresh baby spinach
2 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil and butter in a pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
Step 2: Stir in the minced garlic and uncooked orzo. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, to lightly toast the orzo and build flavor.
Step 3: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Once it begins to bubble, reduce the heat to medium or medium-low so the broth simmers gently. Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring often. Add a splash more broth if it looks like it’s reducing too quickly before the pasta is tender.
Step 4: Stir in the softened Boursin cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Remove the pot from heat. Add the fresh spinach and cooked chicken, then cover the pot and let it sit for 5 minutes. The spinach will wilt, the chicken will warm through, and the sauce will thicken slightly.
Step 6: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve garnished with chopped fresh chives if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra richness, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.
Swap baby spinach for kale or arugula for a different green and flavor profile.
Use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken to save time.
Add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes while sautéing the onion for added depth.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a creamy pasta dish in a pot. The dish has two main layers: a creamy white sauce coating the orzo pasta, which looks soft and smooth, and green leafy spinach mixed evenly throughout, adding contrast. There are also pieces of white shredded chicken scattered on top, giving texture and variation. A purple spoon is partially visible on the right side, scooping the dish. The background surface is white marble. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Boursin?

Yes, creamy cheeses like cream cheese mixed with herbs, goat cheese, or even a soft ricotta can work as substitutes, though the flavor will vary slightly.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely. Use vegetable broth and omit the chicken or replace it with chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms for protein.