Introduction: Indulge in the rich flavors of a Creamy Chicken Boursin Orzo Bake that combines succulent chicken, velvety Boursin cheese, and tender orzo pasta for a comforting and satisfying dish. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and decadence, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 package (5.2 oz) Boursin cheese (Garlic & Herb flavor)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Cook Orzo: Cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet, sauté the diced chicken until fully cooked and golden brown. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant.
- Prepare Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, allowing it to simmer. Add the Boursin cheese, stirring until it melts and forms a creamy sauce.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked orzo and sautéed chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Top with Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the orzo and chicken mixture, providing a deliciously cheesy topping.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Important Points:
- Boursin Cheese Choice: The Garlic & Herb Boursin cheese adds a delightful flavor, but feel free to experiment with other Boursin varieties to suit your taste.
- Orzo Consistency: Be mindful not to overcook the orzo during the initial boiling stage, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Chicken Moisture: To ensure juicy chicken, avoid overcooking it during the initial sauté, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
FAQs:
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, assemble the dish without baking and refrigerate. Bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? A: Absolutely! Adjust cooking times to ensure the thighs are fully cooked.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, store in an airtight container, and it should freeze well for up to two months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Indulge in the creamy goodness of this Chicken Boursin Orzo Bake, perfect for satisfying your cravings for a hearty and flavorful meal.