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Crispy One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Chicken and Spinach

crispy one-pan garlic parmesan orzo - featured image
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A comforting and crispy one-pan dish featuring garlic parmesan orzo, tender chicken thighs, and fresh spinach, perfect for quick and cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 cup orzo pasta (about 190 g)
  • 4 cups fresh spinach (about 120 g), roughly chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (about 75 g)
  • 3 cups chicken broth (720 ml), low sodium preferred
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat in a heavy-bottomed skillet.
  3. Add the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for 5-6 minutes without moving them.
  4. Flip and cook another 4-5 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken to a plate and set aside.
  5. Lower heat to medium. Add remaining olive oil and butter to the pan.
  6. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned, about 30 seconds.
  7. Add orzo and stir to coat evenly with oil and garlic. Toast for 2-3 minutes until golden.
  8. Pour in chicken broth and stir well, scraping browned bits from the bottom.
  9. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover tightly with a lid or foil.
  10. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring once halfway through to prevent sticking.
  11. Remove lid and stir in chopped spinach and grated Parmesan cheese.
  12. Season with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir gently to combine.
  13. Nestle cooked chicken thighs back on top of the orzo mixture.
  14. Increase heat to medium-high and cook uncovered for 3-5 minutes to crisp the orzo on the bottom.
  15. Remove from heat and let rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
  16. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Use a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent hot spots and burning. Toast the orzo before adding broth to develop nutty flavor and ensure crispiness. Reheat leftovers in a skillet to revive crispiness; avoid microwaving. Butter is key for rich flavor and golden color. For vegetarian or dairy-free versions, substitute ingredients as noted.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic parmesan orzo, chicken and spinach, one-pan meal, crispy orzo, quick dinner, comfort food

Find it online: https://ariaappetite.com/crispy-one-pan-garlic-parmesan-orzo-with-chicken-and-spinach-recipe/