If you’re searching for a creamy, crowd-pleasing skillet dinner, Boursin Orzo with Chicken is about to become your new favorite! Imagine juicy, golden-seared chicken nestled on a bed of buttery, herby orzo, all swirled together with luscious Boursin cheese and a touch of spinach for an irresistible pop of color. This dish isn’t just dinner—it’s comfort in a skillet and a guaranteed way to impress, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy dinner with friends.

Boursin Orzo with Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in Boursin Orzo with Chicken is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor and aroma, while keeping the process refreshingly simple. Let’s break down what makes each component shine in this delicious meal.

Olive oil: For that golden sear and rich depth in both the chicken and orzo.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: They soak up the seasonings and become tender and juicy, perfect for slicing into the creamy orzo.
Garlic powder: Simple, bold garlic notes that meld seamlessly into every bite.
Paprika: Adds gentle warmth and a touch of color.
Salt: Essential for balancing flavors and bringing out the best in every ingredient.
Black pepper: Just the right amount of bite to perk up the dish.
Orzo pasta: The secret to a risotto-like base that soaks up cream and cheese for a luxurious mouthfeel.
Chicken broth: Delivers savory depth, making the orzo extra flavorful.
Heavy cream: For that decadent, silky texture that binds everything together.
Boursin cheese (Garlic & Fine Herbs flavor): The star of the show, bringing creamy, tangy, and herby goodness that sets this dish apart.
Fresh spinach, chopped: Pops of green that wilt down beautifully, adding freshness and nutrition.
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): For those who crave an extra hint of salty, nutty richness.
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish): Adds a final burst of color and herby brightness to your plate.

How to Make Boursin Orzo with Chicken

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by warming the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While it’s heating, season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Once the oil is shimmering, lay the chicken breasts in the skillet. Let them cook, undisturbed, for 4 to 5 minutes on each side. This guarantees a golden, flavorful crust—don’t rush this part! When fully cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside; you’ll be bringing it back soon.

Step 2: Toast the Orzo

Without cleaning the skillet (all those little brown bits are pure flavor!), stir in the dry orzo. Toast it for about 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly—you want it lightly golden and fragrant, not burnt! This quick toast deepens the nutty flavor and helps the orzo hold its shape.

Step 3: Simmer the Orzo

Pour in the chicken broth and give everything a good stir, scraping up any flavor from the bottom of the pan. Bring the broth to a simmer, then cover the skillet. Let the orzo cook, checking and stirring occasionally, for 8 to 10 minutes. It should absorb most of the broth and become just tender; if it looks dry, splash in a little more broth or water.

Step 4: Stir in the Cream and Boursin

Reduce the heat to low. Now comes the best part—stir in the heavy cream and the whole package of Boursin cheese. Watch as it melts into the orzo, creating the creamiest, dreamiest base for your Boursin Orzo with Chicken. Be patient here and keep stirring until everything is smooth and glossy.

Step 5: Wilt the Spinach

Fold in the chopped fresh spinach. In just a minute or two, it will wilt down, nestling into the orzo and brightening up the whole skillet with its emerald green color. This quick step elevates the whole dish, sneaking in some tenderness and freshness.

Step 6: Combine and Finish

Return the chicken breasts (and any juices from the plate!) to the skillet, nestling them gently into the creamy orzo. Warm everything together for another minute or so, letting flavors mingle. If you like, sprinkle the top with Parmesan and fresh parsley right before serving. Now, you’re ready to serve the unforgettable Boursin Orzo with Chicken!

How to Serve Boursin Orzo with Chicken

Garnishes

A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a shower of fresh parsley are perfect finishing touches for Boursin Orzo with Chicken. Both add a final pop of flavor and color, making each plate look as inviting as it tastes. For a little zing, try a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a pinch of cracked black pepper just before serving.

Side Dishes

This dish is rich and creamy, so it pairs beautifully with something crisp and refreshing. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or some roasted asparagus can complement Boursin Orzo with Chicken perfectly. Warm garlic bread or a fluffy dinner roll to sop up the sauce wouldn’t go amiss, either!

Creative Ways to Present

For a special twist, slice the chicken and fan it over the orzo before garnishing, or serve in shallow pasta bowls for an upscale bistro feel. If you’re hosting, portion Boursin Orzo with Chicken into individual ramekins or mini pots for a cute and cozy presentation. Let your colors shine with plenty of parsley or even edible flowers on top for extra wow factor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Boursin Orzo with Chicken keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container, and make sure the orzo is covered in the sauce so it doesn’t dry out. It thickens as it sits, but that just makes the flavors richer.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze portions of this dish. The cream sauce may separate a bit when thawed, but a quick stir upon reheating brings it right back to life. Place cooled Boursin Orzo with Chicken in airtight containers, and freeze for up to two months. Label and date the containers so you always know what’s waiting in your freezer for a cozy night in.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to help loosen the sauce if it has thickened. Keep stirring until the Boursin Orzo with Chicken is creamy and heated through, being careful not to overcook the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will stay juicy and bring even more flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, making sure they’re cooked through before slicing and serving atop your Boursin Orzo with Chicken.

Can I make Boursin Orzo with Chicken vegetarian?

You can! Simply omit the chicken, use veggie broth, and consider adding roasted vegetables or mushrooms for serious umami. The creamy Boursin orzo is plenty satisfying all on its own.

What if I can’t find Boursin cheese?

Cream cheese blended with fresh garlic and your favorite herbs works as a great stand-in. While nothing beats the original for this dish, the flavor and creaminess will still come through in your Boursin Orzo with Chicken.

Is orzo the same as rice?

Orzo might look like rice, but it’s actually a tiny, rice-shaped pasta. It cooks up quickly and gets irresistibly creamy when simmered in broth, just like in this recipe!

How can I make this dish spicier?

For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or swap the paprika for smoked or hot paprika. You can even drizzle spicy olive oil over the finished Boursin Orzo with Chicken for an extra kick.

Final Thoughts

Boursin Orzo with Chicken is one of those rare recipes that manages to be both weeknight-friendly and seriously impressive. Velvety, herb-laced sauce, juicy chicken, and perfectly cooked orzo—what’s not to love? Give it a try and let it work its creamy magic at your next dinner; you might just find your new go-to comfort classic.

Boursin Orzo with Chicken Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 29 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Boursin Orzo with Chicken recipe is a creamy and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with orzo pasta cooked in a rich Boursin cheese sauce. Perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken to the skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Cook the Orzo: In the same skillet, toast orzo for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. Add chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and cover. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender.
Make the Sauce: Reduce heat to low, stir in heavy cream and Boursin cheese until fully melted and creamy. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted, 1-2 minutes.
Combine and Serve: Return chicken to the skillet and warm through. Garnish with Parmesan and parsley before serving, if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: European