Description
This comforting and creamy Chicken Orzo Bake combines tender shredded chicken, tender orzo pasta, and juicy tomatoes baked together with flavorful Boursin cheese and parmesan. Spinach adds a fresh touch, while optional mozzarella balls create a melty, cheesy topping. Perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner, it’s easy to prepare and sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Pasta
- 3 heaping cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken, leftovers, or air fried/baked chicken breast – shredded; about 1.5 lbs raw)
- 2 cups orzo pasta (uncooked)
Vegetables
- 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes
- 3 oz spinach (chopped)
Liquids and Seasonings
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt & ground black pepper, to taste
- Splash of cream (optional)
Cheeses
- 1 (5.3-oz) package Boursin cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan
- 1 cup mozzarella balls (optional)
Garnishes
- Chopped parsley and/or basil (optional)
- Lemon juice (optional)
- Extra parmesan (optional)
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spray a 9×13 inch casserole dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Assemble: In the prepared dish, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked orzo pasta, cherry tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to mix all ingredients evenly. Nestle the Boursin cheese package in the center of the mixture.
- Bake covered: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to allow the orzo to cook fully and flavors to meld.
- Finish baking uncovered: Carefully remove the foil, then stir in the chopped spinach and freshly grated parmesan cheese. Add a splash of cream if you desire a creamier texture. Scatter mozzarella balls on top if using. Return the casserole to the oven uncovered and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the top is lightly browned.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil, a squeeze of lemon juice, and extra parmesan as desired for added freshness and flavor.
Notes
- Using rotisserie chicken or leftovers can save prep time.
- Adding cream is optional but enhances creaminess.
- Spinach adds a fresh, nutritious component; other greens could be substituted if preferred.
- Moisture level may vary depending on the broth and cream; check the orzo’s tenderness before finishing baking.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely.
