Creamy Boursin Orzo Chicken Recipe

Craving a hearty and flavorful meal that’s a breeze to whip up? Look no further than this delectable Tasty Boursin Orzo Chicken recipe! This dish is a true winner, boasting creamy orzo pasta paired with succulent chicken breasts, all brought together by the rich and herby goodness of Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs cheese.

Picture this: tender chicken mingling with perfectly cooked orzo, all coated in a velvety sauce that’s as indulgent as it is comforting. The magic happens in just one skillet, making it a go-to for both weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. Boursin cheese takes the spotlight here, infusing every bite with a burst of flavor that will have your taste buds dancing.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself to a cozy night in, this Tasty Boursin Orzo Chicken is sure to impress. Plus, with easy substitutions and make-ahead options, you can customize this dish to suit your preferences and schedule. Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this creamy and irresistible recipe!

Quick Benefits

• Creamy and Flavorful: The Boursin cheese creates a lusciously creamy texture and adds a burst of herby flavor to the orzo and chicken.
• Quick and Easy: This one-skillet recipe comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile: Easily customizable with ingredient swaps like different pasta shapes, protein choices, and cheese alternatives, allowing for endless variations to suit personal preferences and dietary needs.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Boursin Orzo Chicken Recipe Recipe

• Creamy and flavorful: The combination of Boursin cheese, heavy cream, and chicken broth creates a rich and luscious sauce that coats the orzo and chicken, making every bite full of creamy goodness.
• Easy one-skillet meal: With just a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. It all comes together in one skillet, cutting down on cleanup time.
• Impressive yet effortless: The way the Boursin cheese melts into the orzo creates a luxurious dish that looks and tastes gourmet, making it perfect for showcasing at dinner parties or special occasions.
• Versatile and customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe based on what ingredients you have on hand. Swap out the protein, cheese, or pasta shape to create different flavor profiles and textures. The recipe also provides meatless and make-ahead options.
• Delicious leftover: The orzo dish can be made ahead of time and reheated with a splash of cream or broth to revive its creaminess. It’s a great option for meal prep or enjoying the leftovers for a quick and satisfying meal.
• Perfect pairing suggestions: Pair this creamy chicken orzo with a lemony green salad, roasted veggies, or garlic bread for a well-rounded meal. A glass of unoaked Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the herby and creamy flavors of the dish.

Ingredients for Creamy Boursin Orzo Chicken Recipe

Main Ingredients

• 1 wheel (5.2 oz) Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs cheese
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, add more if you like
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Optional Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Pro Tips for Creamy Boursin Orzo Chicken Recipe

Pro Tip 1: To enhance the flavors of this dish, consider marinating the chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, garlic powder, and black pepper for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will infuse the chicken with extra taste and make it even more succulent when combined with the creamy orzo.

Pro Tip 2: When adding the Boursin cheese to the orzo, make sure to crumble it evenly throughout the mixture to ensure every bite is filled with its rich, herby flavor. Stirring continuously while adding the cheese will help it melt smoothly and create a velvety texture throughout the dish.

Pro Tip 3: For a time-saving solution, consider using rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked protein options like shrimp or Italian sausage to cut down on prep time. Additionally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of cheeses or pasta shapes to customize the dish to your taste preferences.

How to Make Creamy Boursin Orzo Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Chicken

Season both sides of the chicken with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes on each side until cooked through and golden. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Toast Orzo

Add the orzo to the pan and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to prevent burning.

Step 3: Cook Orzo

Add chicken broth to the pot and bring to a gentle boil. Cover with a lid and stir occasionally. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the orzo is tender but still firm.

Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese

Reduce heat, then combine heavy cream and Boursin cheese until a smooth sauce forms.

Step 5: Add Spinach

Add the chopped spinach and stir until the leaves become soft, approximately 1 minute.

Step 6: Reheat Chicken

Return the cooked chicken to the pan and heat everything together until warmed through.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, sprinkle Parmesan cheese and parsley on top. Serve immediately.

Storage Tips

To store the finished dish of Tasty Boursin Orzo Chicken, you can place any leftovers in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to reheat, simply warm it up gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or broth to bring back the creaminess as the orzo may have absorbed some of the sauce over time. While the dish will still taste great after a couple of days, it is creamiest on the first day, so aim to enjoy it fresh for the best experience.

It is not recommended to freeze the Boursin Orzo Chicken as the sauce’s texture does not fare well through the thawing process. If you need to make adjustments due to ingredient availability, you can substitute Boursin cheese with alternatives like plain cream cheese mixed with dried herbs or chives. Additionally, you can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or milk thickened with cornstarch. Feel free to customize the dish by using different proteins such as shredded rotisserie chicken, chicken thighs, Italian sausage, or cooked shrimp to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have Boursin on hand, you can use plain cream cheese mixed with dried Italian herbs or chives as a substitute. This alternative will still provide a similar creamy texture and herby flavor to the dish. Additionally, other creamy cheeses like goat cheese, ricotta with chopped herbs, or even plain cream cheese can be used to achieve a similar taste profile.

For the orzo pasta, if you don’t have orzo available, you can swap it with ditalini, baby shells, or acini di pepe. These pasta shapes will also work well with the creamy sauce and chicken. Just keep an eye on the cooking time and adjust the amount of broth as needed during cooking.

If you prefer a vegetarian option or don’t have chicken on hand, you can substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for a meatless version of the dish. Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to maintain the savory flavor profile. This substitution offers a flavorful alternative that still pairs well with the creamy orzo base.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Tasty Boursin Orzo Chicken in shallow bowls garnished with extra fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil for a beautiful presentation. Pair it with a lemony green salad and a side of roasted asparagus or steamed green beans to add a refreshing crunch to the creamy dish. For a complete dining experience, offer a glass of unoaked Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio to complement the herby and creamy flavors.

To switch things up, consider using alternative ingredients such as goat cheese, ricotta with chopped herbs, or plain cream cheese for a similar creamy texture. You can also experiment with different pasta shapes like ditalini, baby shells, or acini di pepe to add variety to the dish. For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a flavorful meatless alternative.

FAQs for Creamy Boursin Orzo Chicken Recipe

Can I substitute Boursin cheese with a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can. Other creamy options like goat cheese, ricotta with chopped herbs, or plain cream cheese can be used to achieve a similar flavor and creamy texture.

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Absolutely! You can try ditalini, baby shells, or acini di pepe as substitutes for orzo. Just keep an eye on the cooking process as you may need to adjust the amount of broth and cooking time.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can make it vegetarian by replacing the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a meatless option that is still full of flavor.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove and add a splash of broth or cream if the consistency seems too thick.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making and savoring this Tasty Boursin Orzo Chicken dish as much as I do! It’s a fantastic option for a quick weeknight meal, a cozy family dinner, or even a special gathering with friends. The creamy texture and flavorful Boursin cheese truly elevate this simple recipe into a dish that feels both comforting and sophisticated.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with this recipe – feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or make substitutions based on what you have on hand. Whether you stick to the original recipe or put your own twist on it, the Tasty Boursin Orzo Chicken is sure to impress with its delicious flavors and creamy texture. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy a delightful meal that will have everyone coming back for more!