If you’re looking for a comforting, delicious meal that comes together in one pot, look no further than this One Pot Spinach Artichoke Chicken Orzo. It’s creamy, flavorful, and has all the elements of a classic spinach and artichoke dip, but in a hearty, satisfying dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. With tender chicken, fresh spinach, and artichoke hearts enveloped in a creamy sauce, every bite is a celebration of flavor. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze since everything is made in one pot!

Reasons to Love One Pot Spinach Artichoke Chicken Orzo

There are many reasons to fall in love with this dish. First, it combines the rich flavors of spinach and artichokes that we all adore, reminiscent of a classic Spinach Artichoke Lasagna Rolls Recipe. Second, the orzo adds a delightful texture, making the dish both filling and satisfying. Finally, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect option for those hectic weeknights when time is of the essence.

Shopping List

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound chicken breast
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
16 ounces orzo
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
4 ounces cream cheese
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can quartered artichoke hearts (14 ounces), drained
8 ounces fresh spinach

Kitchen Gear Checklist

Large pot or Dutch oven – for cooking everything in one vessel.
Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring and combining ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts.
Cutting board and knife – for preparing the chicken and veggies.

Cooking One Pot Spinach Artichoke Chicken Orzo: The Process

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Add the chicken to the pot and sauté until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Orzo

In the same pot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the orzo and stir to combine, allowing it to absorb the flavors from the garlic. Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 8-10 minutes or until the orzo is tender.

Step 3: Add the Cream

Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and cream cheese, mixing until the cream cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with an additional teaspoon of salt and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Spinach and Artichokes

Gently fold in the quartered artichoke hearts and fresh spinach until the spinach is wilted and everything is well combined. Return the cooked chicken to the pot and stir everything together until heated through.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Serve the One Pot Spinach Artichoke Chicken Orzo warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy the creamy goodness and the delightful combination of flavors!

Seasonal Serving Ideas

Pair with a fresh garden salad for a light summer meal.
Serve alongside crusty bread for dipping in the creamy sauce during fall.
Top with crispy bacon bits for a rich winter twist.
Add a squeeze of lemon for a refreshing spring flavor burst.

Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary

Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other vegetables like peas or bell peppers.
You can substitute the chicken breast with shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep time.
For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and add more veggies or even chickpeas.
This dish can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free orzo or another gluten-free pasta alternative.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This One Pot Spinach Artichoke Chicken Orzo can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. It also freezes well, so consider making a double batch for easy meals later on. Just freeze it in an airtight container, and it will keep for up to 2 months.

FAQ

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the pot.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream.

Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! You can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give it a nice kick.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the chicken and add more artichokes and spinach; consider adding chickpeas for protein!

Quick Weeknight Wins

Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan – a quick and crispy favorite.
Spinach Artichoke Lasagna Rolls Recipe – packed with flavor and easily made ahead.
One-Pan Lemon Garlic Salmon – another easy cleanup dinner.
Sheet Pan Fajitas – vibrant and full of flavor in no time.

That’s a Wrap

This One Pot Spinach Artichoke Chicken Orzo is a delightful dish that brings together familiar flavors in a comforting and filling way. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s perfect for any night of the week. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how satisfying it is to enjoy. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to dive into a bowl of creamy, delicious goodness that everyone at the table will adore!