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cheesy chicken orzo

cheesy chicken orzo

A creamy and cheesy chicken and orzo dish perfect for a quick dinner.
Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 12 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.25 teaspoon paprika or to taste
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup orzo
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 0.5 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon dijon mustard optional
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach optional

Instructions
 

Preparation Steps

  • Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven or a 5-quart pan over medium-high heat.
  • Add chicken pieces, season with thyme, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook until done, about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
  • Add about 3 quarts of water to the pan, bring to a boil, then stir in the orzo and cook for 8 to 9 minutes until tender.
  • Drain the orzo.
  • Return the orzo to the pan, stir in cheese, milk, butter, and mustard. Mix until smooth and creamy. Adjust with more milk if needed.
  • Add spinach, stir until wilted, about 1 minute.
  • Stir in the cooked chicken.
  • Serve hot.

Notes

This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner with a cheesy, comforting flavor.