One-Pot Chicken Florentine Orzo

If you’re chasing a meal that’s as comforting as it is impressive, you’re in for a treat with this One-Pot Chicken Florentine Orzo recipe. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and that delicate orzo pasta that soaks up every bit of flavor. Best of all, everything cooks in a single pot, meaning less mess and more time to enjoy a delicious dinner. Whether you’re juggling a busy weeknight or craving a cozy dish, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Clean-Up: One-pot cooking means you only need to wash one pan at the end.
• Flavor-Packed: Creamy cheese, garlicky spinach, and juicy chicken combine for a rich, comforting taste.
• Quick Prep: From start to finish in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
• Nutritious and Balanced: Protein, greens, and carbs all in one dish to keep you satisfied.
• Family Friendly: Mild flavors and a creamy texture make it a hit with both kids and adults.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this One-Pot Chicken Florentine Orzo recipe are straightforward but essential, each bringing a unique touch to the dish’s creamy yet fresh profile. The balance of tender chicken, flavorful spinach, and slightly al dente orzo means every bite bursts with harmonious taste and texture.

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless pieces ensure quick cooking and tender bites.
• Orzo Pasta: Small rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs the sauce beautifully.
• Fresh Spinach: Adds a pop of color and a nourishing, mild bitterness that brightens the creamy sauce.
• Garlic: Infuses a fragrant depth enhancing the overall flavor without overpowering.
• Chicken Broth: Creates a flavorful base that’s both savory and moist enough to cook the orzo perfectly.
• Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: For that luscious, creamy texture that makes the sauce irresistible.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds sharpness and richness, melting into the sauce for perfect cheesiness.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing the chicken and garlic to golden perfection.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance every ingredient.

Variations for One-Pot Chicken Florentine Orzo

One of the best things about this One-Pot Chicken Florentine Orzo recipe is how flexible it is. Feel free to tweak it to suit your pantry, dietary needs, or what you’re craving. Here are some easy swaps and additions to make it your own.

• Swap Chicken for Turkey: Ground turkey or turkey breast filets work just as well.
• Go Vegetarian: Replace chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas for a meatless version.
• Use Greek Yogurt: Stir in Greek yogurt instead of cream for a tangy twist and lighter sauce.
• Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Toss in chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of acidity and color.
• Spice It Up: Sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a little kick.
• Different Greens: Try baby kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for more texture and flavor depth.

How to Make One-Pot Chicken Florentine Orzo

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and nearly cooked through. Remove from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Spinach

In the same pot, add a little more olive oil if needed, then toss in minced garlic. Cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Add fresh spinach and cook, stirring, until it wilts down significantly.

Step 3: Add Orzo and Broth

Pour in the dry orzo pasta, stirring it around to toast lightly for 1-2 minutes. Then add chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom to infuse that flavor into the liquid.

Step 4: Simmer Everything Together

Return the chicken breasts to the pot, nestling them among the orzo and spinach. Cover and let everything simmer on medium-low heat for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Cheese

Lower the heat, pour in heavy cream or half-and-half and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese. Stir gently until the sauce is thick and creamy, coating the chicken and orzo evenly.

Step 6: Final Taste and Serve

Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed, then serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.

Pro Tips for Making One-Pot Chicken Florentine Orzo

• Use High-Quality Broth: This is the base of your sauce, so a flavorful broth really elevates the dish.
• Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Keep an eye on it for that perfect tender but slightly chewy texture.
• Rest the Chicken: Let the cooked chicken rest for a few minutes off-heat to keep it juicy.
• Wilt the Spinach Last: Adding spinach too early can make it mushy, so sauté it just before adding liquids.
• Customize Cheese Amount: Don’t hesitate to increase or reduce Parmesan based on your preference for cheesiness.

How to Serve One-Pot Chicken Florentine Orzo

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add a burst of color and freshness, while extra grated Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil brings an extra layer of richness.

Side Dishes

Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to brighten the plate and balance the creamy, savory flavors of the orzo.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this dish in individual shallow bowls with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for crunch, or plate it alongside crusty bread to soak up every drop of the luscious sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it an excellent next-day meal.

Freezing

Freeze leftover One-Pot Chicken Florentine Orzo in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce, or microwave in short intervals stirring in between to keep it creamy and smooth.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice or quinoa instead of orzo?

Yes, but cooking times will vary; brown rice and quinoa take longer to cook, so prepare them separately before adding to the dish.

Is this recipe freezer friendly?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked orzo with chicken, but add fresh spinach when reheating for the best texture.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a plant-based cream, and use vegan Parmesan alternatives for a dairy-free version.

What’s the best way to prevent the orzo from sticking?

Stir frequently while simmering and make sure to have enough broth or liquid to keep the pasta coated and cooking evenly.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Fresh spinach is best here, but if you use frozen, thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding to avoid excess water diluting the sauce.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pot Chicken Florentine Orzo recipe is a wonderful blend of creamy comfort and simple convenience that’s sure to brighten your dinner table. It’s easy to make, packed with wholesome ingredients, and endlessly adaptable — a true crowd-pleaser you’ll want to come back to again and again. Give it a try tonight, and I promise it will feel like a warm hug in a bowl.

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