Boursin Orzo with Chicken

A velvety, one-pot wonder that marries tender orzo with creamy Boursin cheese and succulent chicken. This comforting dish transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal that comes together in just 30 minutes. The orzo soaks up all the savory flavors while cooking, creating an effortless weeknight dinner that tastes like you've been stirring risotto all day.

Last week, I made this for my sister's family who dropped by unexpectedly. Even her teenager, who usually pushes pasta around the plate, asked for seconds. The secret? That creamy Boursin cheese melting into little pockets of herby goodness throughout the dish.

Essential Ingredients & Selection Tips

• Orzo Pasta: Look for high-quality orzo that will hold its shape when cooked. Premium brands tend to have better texture
• Boursin Cheese: The Garlic & Fine Herbs variety creates the perfect base flavor, but feel free to experiment with other varieties
• Chicken Stock: Use low-sodium stock so you can control the saltiness. The better the stock, the richer your final dish
• Sweet Onion: Vidalia onions provide a subtle sweetness that balances the creamy sauce
• Fresh Spinach: Choose bright, crisp leaves - they'll wilt perfectly into the warm pasta
• Rotisserie Chicken: Pick one that's still warm from the store for the best flavor and texture

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Detailed Cooking Instructions

Creating the Base:

Step 1:

Warm butter and olive oil in a deep pot until the butter starts to bubble

Step 2:

Add diced onions, cooking until they turn translucent and soft

Step 3:

Stir in minced garlic just until fragrant - about 30 seconds

Step 4:

Add dry orzo, stirring to coat each grain with the buttery mixture

Step 5:

Let it toast slightly, giving the pasta a nutty depth

Building the Sauce:

Step 1:

Pour in chicken broth gradually, stirring to prevent any clumping

Step 2:

Keep the heat at a gentle simmer - too high and the liquid will evaporate too quickly

Step 3:

Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking

Step 4:

Watch for the moment when the orzo is almost tender but still has a slight bite

Adding the Magic:

Step 1:

Break the Boursin into chunks and drop them into the pot

Step 2:

Stir gently until it melts completely into a silky sauce

Step 3:

The pasta should look creamy but still easily stirred - if too thick, add a splash of hot broth

Step 4:

Taste and adjust seasonings, remembering Boursin already brings salt to the party

Finishing Touches:

Step 1:

Pull the pot off the heat - this prevents the spinach from overcooking

Step 2:

Fold in your chicken pieces and fresh spinach

Step 3:

Cover and let sit for 5 minutes - this is when the magic happens

Step 4:

Give it one final gentle stir before serving

My family discovered Boursin cheese at a wine tasting, and it's been a staple in our fridge ever since. This orzo dish was born on a busy Tuesday when I had nothing but a rotisserie chicken and that little wheel of cheese - sometimes the best recipes come from simple necessity.

Kitchen Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its flexibility. Some nights I'll toss in sundried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms. Once, when my herb garden was overflowing, I added fresh basil and thyme - the result was magnificent.

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Make-Ahead Tips

While best served fresh, you can prep components ahead: chop onions, measure ingredients, and shred chicken. Store them separately in the fridge, ready to go when you need a quick dinner.

After countless iterations, this recipe has become my go-to when I need something comforting yet impressive. There's something about the way the Boursin melts into a silky sauce, coating each grain of orzo, that makes this humble pasta dish feel special. Whether it's a busy weeknight or a casual dinner with friends, this one-pot wonder never fails to bring smiles to the table. The best part? You'll spend more time enjoying dinner with your loved ones than washing dishes afterward.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add extra vegetables like mushrooms or peas for more substance.

→ What can I substitute for Boursin cheese?

If you can't find Boursin, use a mixture of cream cheese and herbs like garlic, parsley, and chives. Garlic and herb goat cheese also works well.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can reheat it gently with a splash of broth or cream to restore the creamy texture. The orzo will continue to absorb liquid as it sits.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A simple green salad or roasted vegetables make perfect sides. It's quite filling on its own, but crusty bread is great for soaking up the sauce.

→ Can I use different pasta instead of orzo?

While orzo works best for this recipe, you can use small pasta shapes like small shells or ditalini. Adjust cooking time and liquid as needed.