How to Make Boursin Orzo with Chicken in 40 Minutes

If you’re looking for a quick, creamy, and flavorful dish to spice up your weekly dinner routine, Boursin Orzo with Chicken is the perfect choice. This dish features tender chicken, creamy Boursin cheese, and hearty orzo pasta, all cooked together in a single skillet. It’s a comforting, flavorful meal that combines savory and creamy textures, making it ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or even impressing guests at a dinner party.

What is Boursin Cheese?

Boursin cheese is a soft, creamy cheese originating from the North of France. Known for its smooth texture and rich flavor, Boursin comes in a variety of flavors. The most popular ones include Garlic and Fine Herbs, Shallot and Chive, and Cracked Black Pepper. This cheese is often used as a spread but can also be incorporated into cooked dishes for a luscious, creamy texture. In this recipe, Boursin adds a depth of flavor and silkiness to the orzo and chicken, making the dish irresistible.

The Magic of Boursin Orzo with Chicken

Boursin Orzo with Chicken is an easy-to-make, one-pan meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful. The creamy Boursin cheese coats the orzo, while the chicken brings in lean protein, and spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition. The result is a dish that feels comforting yet light, making it suitable for a weeknight dinner or as part of a meal prep plan.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe offers a few distinct benefits:

• Quick and easy: Made in one skillet, it’s the perfect dish when you’re short on time.

• Versatile: You can customize it by swapping ingredients like chicken, spinach, or the type of broth.

• Nutrient-dense: With lean chicken and spinach, this dish is packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals.

• Comforting and filling: The creamy Boursin cheese gives it a rich, satisfying texture, while the orzo soaks up all the flavors.

This dish is perfect for anyone looking to add a little variety to their usual weeknight dinners without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.

Ingredients for Boursin Orzo with Chicken

To make Boursin Orzo with Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Orzo: A small, rice-shaped pasta that soaks up the creamy sauce, adding a hearty bite.
• Boursin cheese: The key ingredient for the creamy texture and bold flavor.
• Skinless chicken breast: Lean protein that stays tender and juicy when cooked properly.
• Chicken broth: To help cook the orzo and add a savory base to the dish.
• Fresh spinach: Adds color, flavor, and nutritional benefits like iron and vitamin K.
• Onion: A great way to add sweetness and depth to the dish.
• Garlic: A must-have to add aromatic flavor.
• Olive oil: Used for sautéing and adding healthy fats.
• Paprika: Adds a mild smokiness to the dish.
• Salt and black pepper: For seasoning.

These ingredients come together to create a simple yet delicious dish that can easily be adapted based on what you have available in your kitchen.

How to Make Boursin Orzo with Chicken

Making Boursin Orzo with Chicken is easy! Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you prepare this comforting dish:

1. Heat the Skillet: Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of olive oil and let it heat up for 1-2 minutes.

2. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add finely diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.

3. Cook the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. Add them to the skillet and cook for about 7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.

4. Season: Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and paprika over the chicken and stir to coat evenly.

5. Add the Broth and Orzo: Pour in the chicken broth and add the dry orzo. Stir to combine. Cover the skillet and cook on medium heat for about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Finish Cooking: After 12 minutes, remove the lid and cook for another 4-5 minutes to allow the liquid to mostly absorb.

7. Stir in Boursin and Spinach: Add the Boursin cheese to the skillet, stirring until it melts into the creamy sauce. Then, add fresh spinach and stir until it wilts.

8. Absorb Remaining Liquid: If there’s still liquid left in the skillet, let it sit for 10 minutes off the heat to allow the orzo to absorb it completely.

9. Optional Garnish: Top with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a touch of heat, if you like.

10. Serve and Enjoy: Your creamy, comforting Boursin Orzo with Chicken is ready to serve!

This one-pan meal is easy to make and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep for the week ahead. The Boursin cheese gives it a creamy richness, while the chicken and spinach provide satisfying protein and vitamins.

Substitutions and Variations for Boursin Orzo with Chicken

One of the best things about this dish is how easily it can be customized. If you don’t have one of the ingredients or want to make a version that fits your dietary needs, here are some great substitutions and variations for Boursin Orzo with Chicken:

Substituting Chicken

While skinless chicken breast is used in the original recipe, you can swap it out for other protein sources depending on your preferences:

• Chicken Thighs: For a juicier, slightly richer flavor, try using boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They add a bit more depth to the dish.

• Turkey Breast: If you prefer a leaner option, turkey breast can be a great substitute.

• Tofu or Tempeh: For a plant-based version, replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Both are excellent sources of protein and soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.

• Shrimp or Fish: If you’re in the mood for seafood, shrimp or white fish like cod can be a delicious alternative. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Boursin Cheese Variations

Boursin is a versatile cheese that comes in various flavors. Here are some options to switch up the flavor profile:

• Garlic and Fine Herbs: The classic flavor is perfect for this recipe and adds a fresh, savory note.

• Shallot and Chive: For a slightly milder flavor with a bit of onion punch, this variety will work beautifully in the sauce.

• Cracked Black Pepper: If you like a little spice, the cracked black pepper version of Boursin adds a nice peppery kick.

• Vegan Boursin: For those who are dairy-free or vegan, look for plant-based Boursin alternatives. These mimic the creamy texture and savory flavor of the original cheese.

Substitute for Spinach

Spinach adds vibrant color and nutritional value, but you can easily swap it with other vegetables:

• Broccoli: Use steamed or sautéed broccoli for a crunchier texture and extra fiber.

• Kale: Kale works great as a hearty substitute for spinach. It’s a bit tougher, so it will require a longer cooking time, but it provides lots of nutrients.

• Red Bell Peppers: For a burst of color and sweetness, add diced red bell peppers to the dish. They’ll add texture and a slight tang.

• Zucchini: Sautéed zucchini slices are another great alternative if you prefer a milder vegetable.

Broth Substitution

If you’re looking to adjust the flavor of the base, there are a few substitutions for the chicken broth:

• Vegetable Broth: For a lighter, vegetarian version, swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. It will still provide a savory base without the meat flavor.

• Creamy Broth: For a richer dish, you can replace the broth with a mixture of chicken or vegetable stock and heavy cream.

• Low-Sodium Broth: If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for a low-sodium or homemade broth for a healthier alternative.

Health Benefits of Boursin Orzo with Chicken

This dish may feel indulgent due to its creamy texture and savory flavors, but it also offers several health benefits thanks to its wholesome ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what each key ingredient brings to the table:

Chicken

Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and maintaining a healthy metabolism. It also provides important vitamins and minerals like B vitamins (B6, niacin, riboflavin), which support energy production and overall brain function. Plus, chicken is relatively low in fat compared to other meats, making it a heart-healthy protein choice.

Spinach

Spinach is packed with vitamin K, crucial for bone health and blood clotting. It’s also a rich source of iron, which supports red blood cell production and helps transport oxygen throughout the body. Additionally, spinach contains antioxidants like vitamin C and beta-carotene, which are great for immune health and skin.

Boursin Cheese

While Boursin cheese is undeniably rich, it provides a creamy texture without being overly heavy. It’s also a source of calcium, important for bone health, and protein, which helps keep you fuller for longer. However, it’s best to consume in moderation if you’re watching your calorie or fat intake, as it is quite rich.

Orzo

Orzo, a small rice-shaped pasta, is a great source of carbohydrates, which provide energy for the body. When using whole wheat orzo, it also provides fiber, which supports digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Fiber is also key to making you feel satisfied after eating, which can prevent overeating.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is a heart-healthy fat that contains monounsaturated fats, known for lowering bad cholesterol levels. It also provides antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. It’s an essential part of the Mediterranean diet and an important addition to this dish for flavor and nutritional value.

Meal Prep and Leftovers

If you’re looking for a recipe that you can make in advance, Boursin Orzo with Chicken is perfect for meal prepping. It stores well and can be eaten over the course of several days.

How to Meal Prep Boursin Orzo with Chicken

1. Cook the dish: Prepare the recipe as usual, making sure to follow the instructions carefully. Once it’s finished cooking, let it cool completely.

2. Divide into portions: Once cooled, divide the dish into airtight containers, ensuring each portion is equal.

3. Store in the fridge: Store the containers in the fridge for up to 5 days.

4. Reheat: To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm them on the stovetop with a splash of broth to rehydrate the orzo.

Leftover Storage

If you have leftovers that you won’t eat within 5 days, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just store the leftovers in freezer-safe containers. To reheat, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight, and then warm them up on the stove or in the microwave.

Boursin Orzo with Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo

• 5.2 oz Boursin cheese (Garlic & Fine Herbs or your preferred flavor)

• 1 lb skinless chicken breast (cut into 1-inch cubes)

• 2.5 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)

• 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)

• ½ onion (diced)

• 1 tablespoon garlic (minced)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and heat for 1 minute.

2. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.

3. Add chicken cubes to the skillet and cook for 7 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and fully cooked.

4. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and paprika over the chicken. Stir to coat evenly.

5. Pour in chicken broth and add orzo. Stir everything together, then cover the skillet and cook on medium heat for 12 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. After 12 minutes, remove the lid and cook for another 4-5 minutes until the liquid is mostly absorbed.

7. Stir in Boursin cheese and chopped spinach. Stir until the cheese melts and the spinach wilts.

8. If there’s any liquid left, let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb fully.

9. Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan. For a spicy kick, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.

10. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

• For a creamier dish, add a splash of heavy cream along with the Boursin cheese.

• You can substitute chicken with chicken thighs, tofu, or shrimp.

• Spinach can be swapped with broccoli, kale, or zucchini for a different texture and flavor.

• This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 5 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Method: Skillet

Cuisine: American, Mediterranean

Servings: 6

Calories: 333 kcal

Yield: 6 servings