Name: One Pan Spinach Artichoke Chicken Orzo: A Creamy Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 to 6 bone-in (skin-on) chicken thighs or 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 tablespoon butter; 3 to 4 garlic cloves (minced); 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup milk or half-and-half; 1 ¼ cups orzo; 14 ounce can quartered artichoke hearts (drained and chopped); 3 to 4 cups fresh spinach (roughly chopped); ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving); ½ cup cream cheese or mascarpone (optional but recommended); Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness); Additional salt and black pepper (to taste)

One Pan Spinach Artichoke is a delightful blend of flavors that transforms your weeknight dinners into a gourmet experience. This recipe combines tender chicken thighs, creamy orzo, fresh spinach, and tangy artichoke hearts, all enveloped in a luscious parmesan sauce. Every bite is a celebration of comfort food, perfect for those busy evenings when you crave something delicious yet easy to prepare. With a total cooking time of just 35 minutes, this dish will soon become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This One Pan Spinach Artichoke

This recipe is not just about flavor; it’s about convenience and health too. Here are several reasons why this One Pan Spinach Artichoke Recipe will win your heart:

Quick preparation means less time in the kitchen.
All-in-one dish makes cleanup a breeze.
Rich in protein and vegetables, it’s a healthy option for dinner.
Versatile enough to be served as a Spinach Artichoke Casserole or a hearty meal.
Easy to customize for various dietary needs, including Gluten-Free Spinach Artichoke Recipe.
Perfect for meal prep or a Quick Spinach Artichoke Dinner.

Ingredients for One Pan Spinach Artichoke

Gather these items:

2 tablespoons olive oil
4 to 6 bone-in (skin-on) chicken thighs or 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon butter
3 to 4 garlic cloves (minced)
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk or half-and-half
1 ¼ cups orzo
14 ounce can quartered artichoke hearts (drained and chopped)
3 to 4 cups fresh spinach (roughly chopped)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
½ cup cream cheese or mascarpone (optional but recommended)
Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)
Additional salt and black pepper (to taste)

How to Make One Pan Spinach Artichoke Step-by-Step

Step 1: Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken until golden brown and nearly cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes per side. Remove to a plate.
Step 3: In the same pan, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant.
Step 4: Add orzo and toast for 1 to 2 minutes.
Step 5: Add chicken broth and milk. Stir and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook about 10 minutes until orzo is tender and creamy.
Step 6: Stir in chopped spinach and artichoke hearts. Cook until spinach wilts.
Step 7: Reduce heat to low. Stir in parmesan cheese and cream cheese until melted and smooth. Season to taste.
Step 8: Slice or shred chicken and return to the pan. Stir to coat in the sauce and simmer until heated through.
Step 9: Sprinkle with more parmesan and black pepper before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect One Pan Spinach Artichoke

Keep these in mind:

This dish can be made with either bone-in or boneless chicken.
Adjust the amount of spinach and artichokes based on your preference.
For extra creaminess, use half-and-half instead of milk.
To elevate flavors, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

One Pan Spinach Artichoke Chicken Orzo: A Creamy Delight - One Pan Spinach Artichoke - main visual representation

Best Ways to Serve One Pan Spinach Artichoke

Enjoy this dish in various ways:

Serve it as a main course with a side salad for a complete meal.
Pair with garlic bread for a comforting dinner.
This also makes a wonderful Spinach Artichoke Dip when served with tortilla chips.

How to Store and Reheat One Pan Spinach Artichoke

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. This dish is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a quick and delicious dinner throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About One Pan Spinach Artichoke

What’s the secret to perfect One Pan Spinach Artichoke?

The secret lies in the balance of flavors and the timing of adding ingredients. Ensure the spinach is added at the end to keep its vibrant color and nutrients. This method is crucial for a successful One Pot Spinach Artichoke.

Can I make One Pan Spinach Artichoke ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be prepared ahead of time. Simply follow the steps and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving for a delightful One Dish Spinach Artichoke Meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with One Pan Spinach Artichoke?

To avoid a dry dish, ensure you monitor the cooking time for the orzo and add extra broth if it seems dry. This will keep your Easy Spinach Artichoke Skillet creamy and delicious.

Variations of One Pan Spinach Artichoke You Can Try

There are several delicious twists you can make:

Use quinoa instead of orzo for a gluten-free option.
Add sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.
Make it vegetarian by omitting chicken and adding more vegetables.
For a richer dish, incorporate a blend of cheeses like mozzarella or gouda.

For more tips on cooking chicken, check out this chicken cooking guide. You can also explore meal prep ideas to make your weeknight dinners easier. If you’re interested in healthy recipes, visit this healthy recipe collection.