Go Back

Chicken Orzo with Spinach, Cherry Tomatoes, and Basil Pesto

A comforting dish combining tender orzo pasta, juicy chicken, vibrant spinach, and sweet cherry tomatoes, all enveloped in fragrant basil pesto.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken breast, cooked and diced Use grilled, baked, or sautéed chicken.
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • to taste Olive oil

Method
 

Cooking the Orzo
  1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Preparing the Chicken
  1. If you haven't cooked the chicken yet, grill, bake, or sauté it until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. Once done, chop it into small pieces.
Sautéing the Vegetables
  1. In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the fresh spinach and halved cherry tomatoes. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften.
Combining the Ingredients
  1. Add the cooked orzo and diced chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the basil pesto, and stir everything together until well combined. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
Seasoning and Serving
  1. Taste your dish and add salt and pepper as needed. Plate your Chicken Orzo with Spinach, Cherry Tomatoes, and Basil Pesto and enjoy.

Notes

For budget-friendly options, use frozen spinach or substitute any protein like chickpeas for a vegetarian twist. Avoid overcooking the orzo to prevent mushiness. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to a month.