Description
A high-protein, one-pan meal combining tender chicken, fresh spinach, and orzo pasta in a rich garlic-cream sauce. The golden cheesy top contrasts perfectly with the silky base for a gourmet Mediterranean-inspired dish.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs chicken breast (cut into 1-inch pieces)
16 oz uncooked orzo pasta
5 oz fresh baby spinach (roughly chopped)
4 cloves garlic (minced)
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese (cubed or shredded)
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat
Sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant
Cook chicken until browned and nearly cooked through
Add orzo, chicken broth, oregano, and spinach to the skillet
Stir to coat, then simmer on stovetop for 5 minutes
Top with Parmesan and mozzarella, transfer to oven
Bake for 15 minutes, then broil for 2-3 minutes until golden
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving
Notes
Use freshly grated cheeses for optimal melting
Substitute zucchini or mushrooms for a vegetable variation
Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days
Can double the recipe for larger gatherings
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 1500mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 110mg