Go Back
Boursin Orzo With Chicken

Boursin Orzo with Chicken

A creamy and flavorful one-pan dish combining tender chicken, smooth orzo pasta, and rich Boursin cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this comforting meal is ready in about 30 minutes and offers a balance of savory and herby flavors.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting time 3 minutes
Total Time 38 minutes
Course Comfort Food, Main Course
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large skillet or sauté pan For cooking chicken, orzo, and sauce in one pan.
  • 1 Measuring Cups and Spoons For precise ingredient measurements.
  • 1 Wooden spoon or spatula For stirring and scraping up browned bits from the pan.
  • Optional Meat Thermometer To ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup Orzo pasta Provides a rice-like texture that absorbs sauce beautifully.
  • 2 cups Cooked chicken Use rotisserie, leftover, or freshly cooked chicken for convenience.
  • 1 package Boursin cheese Garlic and herb flavor recommended; about 5 oz.
  • 2–2½ cups Chicken broth Adjust based on desired creaminess and orzo absorption.
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil or butter For cooking chicken and sautéing aromatics.
  • ½ cup Finely chopped onion Adds depth to the flavor base.
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Enhances savory notes.
  • Optional 1–2 cups Fresh spinach or broccolini for added color and nutrition.

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Recipe

    Prepare the Chicken:

    • Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Pat dry with paper towels.
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken pieces for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Remove and let rest before slicing or cubing.

    Cook the Orzo:

    • Lower heat to medium and add butter and olive oil to the same skillet. Sauté onion for 2–3 minutes until translucent. Stir in garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
    • Add orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes, stirring to coat in the butter and oil. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.

    Incorporate Boursin Cheese:

    • Reduce heat to low. Stir in Boursin cheese until melted and fully incorporated into the sauce.
    • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat evenly with the creamy sauce. Add spinach or herbs if using, and stir until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Let sit for 1–2 minutes to thicken slightly.

    Serve:

    • Serve hot with optional garnishes like fresh parsley or grated Parmesan. Pair with roasted vegetables or a side salad for a complete meal.

    Notes

      • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently to maintain creaminess.
      • Freezing: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
      • Customizations: Add cherry tomatoes, roasted zucchini, or marinated olives for extra flavor and variety.
     
     

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. What is the key to making Boursin Orzo with Chicken creamy?
      • Toasting the orzo lightly and simmering it in broth allows it to absorb liquid evenly. Adding Boursin cheese at the end creates a velvety sauce.
       
    2. Can I use pre-cooked chicken in this recipe?
      • Yes, rotisserie or leftover chicken works well. Simply reheat it in the sauce toward the end of cooking.
       
    3. What can I substitute for Boursin cheese?
      • Soft cheeses like goat cheese or cream cheese mixed with garlic and herbs can be used as alternatives.
     
    1. How do I prevent the orzo from sticking or becoming mushy?
      • Stir occasionally while cooking and add a splash of broth or water if the mixture thickens too quickly. Avoid overheating when reheating leftovers.
       
    2. What sides pair well with Boursin Orzo with Chicken?
      • Light sides like steamed broccoli, green beans, or a mixed greens salad complement the dish without overpowering its richness.
     
    1. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
      • Yes, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add roasted vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for substance.
     
     

    Tips & Tricks

    • Flavor Enhancement: Add a squeeze of lemon juice or zest for brightness. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley elevate aroma and taste.
    • Presentation: Garnish with grated Parmesan, red pepper flakes, or fresh herbs for visual appeal.
    • Leftovers: Reheat individual portions in the microwave with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.
     
     

    Plating and Garnishing

    • Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley, grated Parmesan, or red pepper flakes over the dish for color and flavor contrast.
    • Serving Style: Serve family-style in a large bowl or plate individually for a polished presentation. Pair with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
    • Sides: Offer roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or a simple green salad to balance the creamy pasta and chicken.
    Keyword Creamy Pasta, One-Pan Meal, Weeknight Dinner