Boursin Orzo with Chicken

This luxurious Boursin Orzo with Chicken transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal that comes together in one pan. The creamy cheese melts beautifully into the orzo, creating a velvety texture that perfectly complements the tender chicken breasts.

I first made this dish when hosting an impromptu dinner party, and it's become my go-to recipe when I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The way the Boursin cheese melts into the orzo creates a restaurant-quality dish that looks like you spent much more time than you actually did.

Ingredients

• Olive oil: Provides the base for searing the chicken to golden perfection
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Create a lean protein foundation that remains juicy and flavorful
• Garlic powder and paprika: Add depth of flavor without the need for fresh ingredients
• Orzo pasta: Works beautifully because its small shape cooks quickly and absorbs flavors wonderfully
• Chicken broth: Infuses the orzo with savory flavor as it cooks
• Heavy cream: Creates luxurious richness that transforms this into a special meal
• Boursin cheese: Is the star ingredient delivering herbs and creaminess in one convenient package
• Fresh spinach: Adds color, nutrition, and a slight earthiness to balance the richness
• Parmesan cheese: Optional but adds a salty, nutty finish that elevates the dish
• Fresh parsley: Brightens the final presentation and adds a fresh herbal note

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sear the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking. Season chicken breasts thoroughly on both sides with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Place chicken in the hot oil and allow it to develop a golden crust before turning, about 4 to 5 minutes per side. The chicken should reach 165°F internally. Remove to a plate and tent loosely with foil to keep warm.

Toast the Orzo:

Using the same skillet with all those flavorful bits from searing the chicken, add the orzo pasta. Toast it for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. This step develops a nutty flavor in the pasta that adds another dimension to the finished dish.

Simmer the Pasta:

Pour in the chicken broth and stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the liquid to a simmer, then cover the skillet and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Create the Creamy Sauce:

Reduce heat to low to prevent curdling, then add the heavy cream and crumble in the Boursin cheese. Stir gently until the cheese completely melts into a silky smooth sauce. The texture should coat the back of a spoon.

Incorporate Vegetables:

Add the chopped fresh spinach to the creamy orzo and fold it in gently. Allow it to wilt into the mixture for 1 to 2 minutes. The residual heat will perfectly cook the spinach without making it stringy.

Reunite and Garnish:

Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy orzo. Allow everything to warm through for about 2 minutes. Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley before serving for a beautiful finishing touch.

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The Boursin cheese is truly what makes this recipe special. I discovered its magic while experimenting with pasta dishes one evening when I was low on ingredients. My husband now requests this dish for special occasions and I love watching guests try to figure out what creates the herby creamy sauce. Its convenience and flavor profile simply cannot be matched by other ingredients.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Boursin Orzo with Chicken can be prepared up to two days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the creamy consistency since the orzo will continue absorbing liquid as it sits. The dish maintains its flavor beautifully, but the texture is best on the first day. Freezing is not recommended as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing and the orzo can become mushy.

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Perfect Substitutions

While Boursin cheese creates the signature flavor of this dish, cream cheese mixed with your favorite dried herbs makes a reasonable substitute in a pinch. For a lighter version, replace the heavy cream with half and half or even milk thickened with a teaspoon of cornstarch. The chicken can be swapped for rotisserie chicken folded in at the end, or try using Italian sausage, thighs, or even shrimp for delicious variations. This recipe welcomes customization based on what you have available.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy Boursin Orzo with Chicken alongside a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil to balance the richness. For a complete meal, add roasted asparagus or steamed green beans that provide textural contrast to the creamy pasta. A glass of unoaked Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy herbed flavors perfectly. For a special presentation, consider serving individual portions in shallow bowls garnished with extra herbs and a drizzle of good olive oil.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute the Boursin cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Boursin cheese with other creamy options like cream cheese, goat cheese, or ricotta mixed with fresh herbs for a similar flavor and texture.

→ Can I use another pasta instead of orzo?

Absolutely! You can use small pasta types like ditalini, acini di pepe, or even small shells, but cooking time and broth quantity may need adjustment.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a flavorful vegetarian option.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish and reheat it gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to refresh the consistency.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.