ONE-PAN Creamy Chicken Orzo with Mushrooms, Spinach, and Basil Pesto

Bringing It All Together

1. Once the orzo is cooked, stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach. The spinach will wilt down quickly, creating a beautiful green layer of color and a burst of freshness in the dish. Let the spinach cook for about 1-2 minutes until it’s fully wilted.
2. Now, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring to combine. The cream will create a rich and velvety sauce that coats the pasta and the other ingredients. Stir in the 1/4 cup of basil pesto, making sure the pesto is evenly distributed throughout the mixture. The pesto adds a vibrant, herby flavor that takes this dish to the next level. You can use store-bought pesto or homemade pesto, depending on your preference.
3. Add the cooked chicken back to the pan, stirring it in with the creamy orzo mixture. Cook everything together for another 2-3 minutes to ensure the chicken is heated through and everything is well combined. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning, adding salt and pepper as needed to balance the flavors. If you’d like an extra layer of flavor, you can stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese at this point, which will melt into the sauce and enhance the creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the creamy chicken orzo hot, garnished with additional fresh basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a finishing touch. The basil adds a nice burst of color and fresh flavor to complement the richness of the dish.
• This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce or a simple green salad for some light, fresh crunch.
• If you like a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top of the dish can add a nice spicy kick that complements the creamy, herby flavors.

Notes

• If you prefer a lighter version of this dish, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavor will still be rich and satisfying.
• For an extra boost of flavor, you can add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the dish before serving. The acidity helps cut through the creaminess and brightens the overall flavor profile.
• This dish is easily customizable—add your favorite vegetables like sun-dried tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini for added variety.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to loosen up the sauce. This dish may also be frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, be aware that the orzo may absorb more of the sauce, so you may need to add extra liquid when reheating.