Cheesy Chicken Orzo Bake
If you’re looking for a delicious, hearty meal that’s easy to whip up on a busy weeknight, look no further!
This Cheesy Chicken Orzo Bake is the perfect combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and flavorful orzo pasta, all baked together in a single dish. With the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, along with a creamy Boursin cheese center, this one-pan wonder is a true comfort food classic that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
The best part? Minimal prep and cleanup—making it an ideal choice for a hassle-free, satisfying dinner.
What Makes This Dish a Winner in My Household?
Let me tell you, this Cheesy Chicken Orzo Bake has become a staple in my home! It’s one of those meals that hits the sweet spot for both simplicity and comfort—plus, the fact that it all cooks in one dish is a major bonus (less cleanup!). My family absolutely loves it. The creamy Boursin cheese melts right into the orzo, creating a rich and flavorful sauce that wraps around each bite. And don’t even get me started on the sun-dried tomatoes—they add the perfect burst of tangy sweetness that balances everything out.
Even my picky eaters went back for seconds, which is a huge win in my book. This bake is hearty enough to be satisfying but still feels light and fresh thanks to the spinach and lemon juice. It’s quickly become a go-to comfort meal that everyone looks forward to, and I love that I can throw it together in under an hour. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll be on regular rotation in your kitchen too!
Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Orzo Bake:
Chicken Breast:
Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into small, even pieces to ensure quick and even cooking. You can also substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier, richer flavor.
Orzo Pasta:
Orzo is a rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully.
Boursin Cheese:
The star of this dish! Boursin is a creamy, herb-flavored cheese that melts into the orzo, creating a luscious sauce. If you can’t find Boursin, you can substitute with cream cheese mixed with fresh herbs and garlic.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
These add a punch of concentrated sweetness and tang. Opt for oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for a softer texture, or rehydrate dry-packed ones in hot water before using.
Spinach:
Fresh spinach adds color and nutrition. You can also use frozen chopped spinach—just thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding.
Chicken Broth & Water:
Using a combination of chicken broth and water keeps the dish flavorful without overwhelming it. You can replace water with more broth for a richer taste.
Lemon Juice:
Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the flavors and balances the richness of the cheese. If you want a milder flavor, use half the lemon or skip it.
Seasonings (Italian Seasoning & Paprika):
Italian seasoning adds a classic herb blend, while paprika gives a touch of warmth and color. Adjust to your preference or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat!