If you’re after a dish that combines creamy richness, tender chicken, and a perfectly cooked, fluffy grain that soaks up every bit of flavor, Boursin Orzo with Chicken is your new go-to meal. This recipe takes advantage of the luscious, herb-packed Boursin cheese to create a sauce that’s both decadent and surprisingly easy to prepare. The orzo pasta cooks right in the sauce, absorbing the garlicky, herby goodness, while chicken adds satisfying protein.
This one-pot meal is ideal for busy weeknights, date nights, or whenever you want something both comforting and impressive without complicated steps or long prep times.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup and fuss.
- Creamy, Herbaceous Flavor: Boursin cheese delivers complex flavor with garlic and herbs.
- Perfectly Cooked Orzo: Cooks in the sauce for maximum flavor absorption.
- Tender Chicken: Juicy and well-seasoned.
- Quick Prep and Cook Time: Ready in under 40 minutes.
- Versatile: Easy to add veggies or swap proteins.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on a few simple, flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups orzo pasta (uncooked)
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 package (5.2 oz) Boursin garlic & herb cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or sauté pan with a lid (10–12 inch)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare and Sauté the Chicken
Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in your skillet. Season chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper.
Add chicken to the pan in a single layer and cook without moving for 3-4 minutes to get a light golden crust. Flip and cook another 2-3 minutes until chicken is mostly cooked through but not dry. Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 2: Cook Onion and Garlic
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until translucent and fragrant.
Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until aromatic, careful not to burn.
Step 3: Add Orzo and Broth
Pour in the orzo pasta and stir it around in the onion and garlic mixture for 1-2 minutes, letting it toast lightly.
Add chicken broth and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer.
Step 4: Simmer the Orzo
Cover and let the orzo cook for about 10 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent sticking. The orzo will absorb most of the liquid.
Step 5: Add Boursin Cheese and Chicken
Lower heat to medium-low. Stir in the Boursin cheese and heavy cream (if using). Mix until cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes creamy.
Return chicken pieces to the pan. Stir gently to coat in the sauce and warm through—about 3-4 minutes.
Step 6: Add Spinach and Final Touches
If you’re adding spinach, stir it in now and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 7: Serve
Spoon the creamy orzo and chicken onto plates or bowls. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley for brightness and a touch of texture.
Serve warm with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook chicken: Removing chicken slightly undercooked before finishing with the sauce helps keep it tender.
- Use low-sodium broth: This lets you control salt levels better.
- Stir orzo regularly: Prevents sticking and promotes even cooking.
- Add veggies: Mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or peas make great additions.
- Make it lighter: Skip heavy cream and use Greek yogurt stirred in off heat.
Variations to Try
- Creamy Mushroom Boursin Orzo: Add sliced mushrooms in step 2 and sauté with onion.
- Lemon Herb Boost: Add zest of one lemon and a squeeze of juice at the end for brightness.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños with the garlic.
- Seafood Swap: Use shrimp or scallops instead of chicken, adjusting cook times.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip chicken and add extra veggies or tofu.
Storage and Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce creamy.
This dish doesn’t freeze well because the cream cheese texture can change.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings)
- Calories: ~480 kcal
- Protein: ~40g
- Carbohydrates: ~35g
- Fat: ~20g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Sodium: ~750mg
Nutrition will vary based on specific ingredients and optional add-ins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare up to step 5, then cool and refrigerate. Reheat gently, adding extra broth or cream if needed.
What is Boursin cheese?
Boursin is a soft, spreadable cheese flavored with garlic and herbs. It melts easily and adds rich flavor.
Can I substitute Boursin?
Cream cheese mixed with garlic powder and dried herbs works as a substitute, though the texture and flavor won’t be quite the same.
Is orzo pasta gluten-free?
Traditional orzo is made from wheat and contains gluten. Gluten-free orzo alternatives exist and can be used.
Final Thoughts
Boursin Orzo with Chicken is a satisfying dish that feels a bit fancy but requires minimal effort. The cheesy, herby richness from Boursin cheese lifts simple ingredients to something special. The one-pan preparation means fewer dishes and faster cleanup.
Perfect for busy nights when you want comfort without complexity, this recipe invites creativity too—add your favorite veggies or swap proteins as you like.
Try it once, and it’s sure to become a favorite you make again and again.