Cheesy Chicken Orzo Bake: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Cheesy Chicken Orzo Bake
Welcome to the world of comfort food, where hearty meals bring joy to the table! Today, we’re diving into an irresistible dish that’s perfect for any occasion: Cheesy Chicken Orzo Bake. This dish combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and nutritious vegetables all baked together for a delightful meal your family will love. With its savory flavors and cheesy goodness, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your home.
A Personal Story Behind My Cheesy Chicken Orzo Bake Journey
Growing up, family dinners were always a special occasion. My grandmother had a knack for creating mouthwatering dishes that brought everyone together. One of her staples was a cheesy pasta bake that filled the house with an inviting aroma. Inspired by her love for cooking, I set out to create my own version, and thus, the Cheesy Chicken Orzo Bake was born. It’s a dish that not only satisfies the taste buds but also warms the heart, reminding me of cherished family moments.
What Makes This Cheesy Chicken Orzo Bake Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out because of its unique combination of flavors and textures. The creamy Boursin cheese melds perfectly with the tender chicken and roasted sweet potatoes, while the orzo adds a delightful chewiness. Plus, the addition of spinach not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds a pop of color. It’s an easy, one-dish meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with friends and family.
The Full Cheesy Chicken Orzo Bake Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
- 1 large sweet potato, cubed in 1/2-inch chunks
- 6 whole cloves garlic, root ends trimmed
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 round (5.2 oz) Boursin cheese
- 1 1/4 cups uncooked orzo
- 1 1/2 cups starchy pasta water
- 3 cups chopped spinach
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9×13 or 10×15 casserole dish. Remember to trim the root end of the garlic cloves, leaving the peel on to prevent them from drying out.
- Place the sweet potato cubes and garlic cloves in the dish. Drizzle with 1 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Toss to coat and roast for 20 minutes, until slightly tender.
- While the vegetables are roasting, cube the chicken and season with the remaining salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil for the orzo.
- After 20 minutes, remove the dish from the oven. Add the Boursin cheese and cubed chicken. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil. Return to the oven for 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- In the meantime, cook the orzo in boiling water according to package instructions. Make sure to reserve at least 1 1/2 cups of the starchy pasta water before draining the orzo.
- Drain the orzo once it’s cooked. Squeeze the roasted garlic from the peels and mash it into a paste. Add the orzo, chopped spinach, and half of the reserved pasta water to the casserole dish. Toss to combine, adding more water as needed for a creamy consistency.
- Finally, sprinkle with shredded parmesan cheese. For an extra touch, consider broiling for 2-3 minutes to achieve a golden finish. Serve hot with fresh thyme or basil for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Cheesy Chicken Orzo Bake
This Cheesy Chicken Orzo Bake is versatile and can be served in various ways. Pair it with a crisp green salad or some warm crusty bread to complete the meal. For a twist, feel free to add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste or make it a vegetarian dish by omitting the chicken and adding more veggies.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Chicken Orzo Bake
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The cheesy goodness and tender chicken make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
Cheesy Chicken Orzo Bake
Equipment
- Casserole Dish 9x13 or 10x15 size recommended
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
- 1 large sweet potato, cubed in 1/2-inch chunks
- 6 cloves whole garlic, root ends trimmed
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 5.2 oz Boursin cheese
- 1.25 cups uncooked orzo
- 1.5 cups starchy pasta water
- 3 cups chopped spinach
- 0.5 cups shredded parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9x13 or 10x15 casserole dish.
- Place the sweet potato cubes and garlic cloves in the dish. Drizzle with 1 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Toss to coat and roast for 20 minutes.
- While the vegetables are roasting, cube the chicken and season with the remaining salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- After 20 minutes, remove the dish from the oven. Add the Boursin cheese and cubed chicken. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil. Return to the oven for 15 minutes.
- Cook the orzo in boiling water according to package instructions, reserving at least 1 1/2 cups of the starchy pasta water.
- Drain the orzo once cooked. Squeeze the roasted garlic from the peels and mash into a paste. Add the orzo, chopped spinach, and half of the reserved pasta water to the dish. Toss to combine.
- Sprinkle with shredded parmesan cheese and optional: broil for 2-3 minutes for a golden finish.