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Creamy Chicken Orzo Bake Recipe

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4.1 from 7 reviews

This creamy Chicken Orzo Bake is a comforting and easy one-dish meal featuring tender orzo pasta, cooked chicken, Alfredo sauce, and fresh veggies. Perfect for a family-friendly dinner, this bake combines rich flavors with simple preparation and a cheesy finish.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 (22 ounce) jar Alfredo sauce (about 2 ½ cups total)
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 2 cups cooked shredded or diced chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
  • 1 (16 ounce) package uncooked orzo pasta
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can fire roasted diced tomatoes, drained
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves, coarsely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
  • 1 ½ cups Italian blend cheese (or shredded mozzarella cheese)

Optional Garnishes

  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh chopped herbs such as basil, oregano, and parsley

Instructions

  1. Preheat and mix: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Whisk together the chicken broth, Alfredo sauce, and minced garlic directly in the dish to form a flavorful base.
  2. Add main ingredients: Stir in the cooked shredded chicken, uncooked orzo pasta, and drained fire roasted diced tomatoes into the sauce mixture. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
  3. Bake covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This allows the orzo to cook and absorb the flavors.
  4. Check and stir: Remove the foil, gently stir the orzo with a fork to separate the pasta. Check if the orzo is al dente – tender but still firm to the bite. If not fully cooked, cover again and bake a little longer until the desired texture is reached.
  5. Add greens and cheese: Once orzo is ready, stir in the fresh spinach and optional lemon juice to add freshness and brightness. Sprinkle the Italian blend cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
  6. Bake uncovered: Bake uncovered for about 5 more minutes, or until the cheese has melted and pasta is tender. For a golden, crispy top, place the dish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  7. Garnish and serve: Optionally garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped herbs like basil, oregano, and parsley to add flavor and color. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy chicken orzo bake!

Notes

  • Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor.
  • If orzo is not tender enough after 30 minutes, continue baking until perfectly cooked.
  • Fresh spinach can be substituted with kale or other greens if preferred.
  • Adjust cheese types according to availability or preference; mozzarella works well as a substitute.
  • Broiling the top briefly creates a nice golden crust but watch closely to prevent burning.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://recipeteach.com/creamy-chicken-orzo-bake-recipe/