Boursin Orzo with Chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines the rich, herby flavors of Boursin cheese with perfectly cooked orzo pasta and tender chicken. This recipe is designed to be a comforting and satisfying meal that can be prepared in under an hour, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The creamy texture of the Boursin cheese pairs beautifully with the orzo, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that is both indulgent and comforting. The addition of chicken not only elevates the dish but also makes it more filling, catering to both kids and adults alike. Whether you serve it as a main course or as a side dish, Boursin Orzo with Chicken is sure to impress with its vibrant presentation and delectable taste. The dish can also be made in larger batches, perfect for meal prep or serving a crowd. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a gourmet meal ready to enjoy in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This recipe stands out for several compelling reasons that will make you want to add it to your regular meal rotation. First, the taste profile is simply irresistible. The creamy Boursin cheese, infused with garlic and herb flavors, melds perfectly with the tender chicken and orzo, creating a dish that is both savory and satisfying. Second, the preparation is a breeze. With minimal cooking time and easy-to-follow steps, even novice cooks will feel confident tackling this recipe. You can have this hearty dish on the table in under an hour, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen. Third, the appearance of Boursin Orzo with Chicken is sure to impress. The creamy sauce glistens on the orzo, while the chicken pieces are beautifully cooked, making for a visually appealing dish that can easily be served for special occasions. Lastly, this recipe is versatile. You can easily customize it with seasonal vegetables or different herbs, ensuring it remains fresh and exciting every time you make it.

Ingredients:

To prepare Boursin Orzo with Chicken, you will need the following ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating the dish’s rich flavor and texture:

1 cup orzo pasta – Orzo, small rice-shaped pasta, absorbs flavors beautifully and provides a wonderful base for the creamy sauce.
2 cups chicken broth – This adds depth and richness to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Chicken is the star protein in this recipe, providing substance and heartiness.
1 tablespoon olive oil – Used for cooking the chicken, this oil adds a touch of flavor while ensuring the chicken remains moist.
1 cup Boursin cheese – The key ingredient, this creamy, herb-infused cheese creates a luscious sauce that brings the entire dish together.

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adding a sharp, nutty flavor, Parmesan complements the Boursin cheese and enriches the dish.
1 cup fresh spinach – This leafy green adds color and a hint of earthiness, balancing the richness of the cheese.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhancing the flavor without overpowering it, garlic powder is an essential seasoning in this recipe.

Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning the chicken and the overall dish, bringing all the flavors together.
Fresh parsley for garnish – A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh taste, elevating the presentation.

Make sure to gather all these ingredients before you start cooking, as it will streamline the process and make it easier to follow the recipe.

How To Make Boursin Orzo with Chicken?

Creating Boursin Orzo with Chicken is a straightforward process that involves several simple steps. Follow these detailed instructions to achieve a perfect dish:

Begin by cooking the orzo. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Once boiling, add 1 cup of orzo and stir gently. Reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain any excess liquid and set aside.

While the orzo is cooking, prepare the chicken. Season 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet.
Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through. You can check for doneness by cutting into the thickest part of the breast to ensure it is no longer pink. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce the heat to medium and add the cooked orzo to the skillet. Stir in 1 cup of Boursin cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheeses melt and coat the orzo, creating a creamy sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.

Next, add the sliced chicken back into the skillet, along with 1 cup of fresh spinach. Stir everything together until the spinach wilts and the chicken is heated through. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
Once everything is well combined, remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the Boursin Orzo with Chicken to a serving platter or individual bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy the creamy goodness of this delightful dish!

Tips For Variations:

While Boursin Orzo with Chicken is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences or to accommodate ingredients you have on hand. Here are some unique substitution ideas to consider:

For a different protein, consider using diced turkey breast or cooked shrimp instead of chicken. Both options will pair wonderfully with the Boursin cheese and add their own unique flavors.
If you want to incorporate more vegetables, try adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the dish. Simply cook them in the skillet before adding the orzo and cheese mixture.

For a bit of heat, consider mixing in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when cooking the chicken. This adds an exciting kick that balances well with the creaminess of the cheese.
If you enjoy a tangy flavor, a tablespoon of lemon juice stirred into the orzo and cheese mixture can brighten the dish and enhance the overall flavor profile.
To make this dish budget-friendly, you can substitute the Boursin cheese with a similar cream cheese blended with herbs. While it may not have the exact same flavor, it will still provide a creamy texture.

For a gluten-free option, swap out the orzo pasta for a gluten-free pasta variety. There are many great options available that will work well in this dish.
If you’re looking to add some crunch, consider topping the finished dish with toasted breadcrumbs or pine nuts for added texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

When it comes to serving Boursin Orzo with Chicken, there are countless creative ways to present this delicious dish. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience:

Serve the orzo in individual bowls for a more personalized touch. Top each bowl with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and a wedge of lemon on the side for a splash of color and a hint of citrus flavor.
Pair the dish with a simple side salad. A mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the orzo and adds a refreshing contrast.

Consider serving the orzo in a large, family-style dish, allowing guests to help themselves. This creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for gatherings.
For a complete meal, serve with garlic bread or crusty rolls on the side to soak up any leftover creamy sauce.
Offer a selection of wines that pair well with this dish. A light white wine or a refreshing sparkling water can enhance the flavors and make the meal feel more special.

If you want to add a gourmet touch, consider garnishing with shaved Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving. This elevates the presentation and adds an extra layer of flavor.

FAQ:

Can I make Boursin Orzo with Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the orzo and chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat and combine with the Boursin cheese and spinach.

What can I serve with Boursin Orzo with Chicken?

This dish pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A light white wine can also complement the flavors beautifully.

Can I use other types of cheese?

While Boursin cheese is the star of this dish, you can experiment with other creamy cheeses like cream cheese blended with herbs or even ricotta for a different flavor profile.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Boursin Orzo with Chicken stores well in the refrigerator for a few days. Just reheat it gently before serving.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Boursin Orzo with Chicken

Boursin Orzo with Chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines the rich, herby flavors of Boursin cheese with perfectly cooked orzo pasta and tender chicken.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Course Main

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Equipment

Medium Saucepan
Large Skillet

Ingredients

1 cup Orzo pasta Small rice-shaped pasta that absorbs flavors beautifully.

2 cups Chicken broth Adds depth and richness to the dish.
1 pound Boneless, skinless chicken breasts Provides substance and heartiness.
1 tablespoon Olive oil Used for cooking the chicken.

1 cup Boursin cheese Creamy, herb-infused cheese that creates a luscious sauce.
1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Adds a sharp, nutty flavor.
1 cup Fresh spinach Adds color and a hint of earthiness.

1/2 teaspoon Garlic powder Enhances the flavor without overpowering it.
Salt and pepper To taste.
Fresh parsley For garnish.

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Add 1 cup of orzo and stir gently. Reduce heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Season 1 pound of chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and let rest before slicing.
3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add cooked orzo. Stir in Boursin cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Add chicken back and stir in spinach until wilted.