Spinach Chicken & Orzo with Feta & Almonds
Introduction
Spinach Chicken & Orzo with Feta & Almonds is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, nutritious spinach, and creamy feta cheese all tossed together with perfectly cooked orzo pasta. This recipe is not only packed with flavor but also offers a balance of protein, healthy greens, and tasty nuts, making it a great option for a family dinner or a quick lunch.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick and healthy meal. It takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The combination of flavors from the lemon, feta, and almonds adds a delightful twist that keeps your taste buds happy. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some greens into your meal, and it’s versatile enough to adjust to your preferences.
How to Make Spinach Chicken & Orzo
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 2 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- Zest and juice of 1/2 lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Directions
- Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the orzo and set it aside.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper and sauté until it is cooked through and golden, about 6–8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the chopped spinach and sauté until it wilts, about 2 minutes.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan, then add the drained orzo, lemon zest, lemon juice, and crumbled feta. Toss everything together and heat through.
- Just before serving, sprinkle with toasted almonds and parsley if desired.
How to Serve Spinach Chicken & Orzo
Serve this dish warm, either on its own or alongside a fresh salad. It also works well with crusty bread to soak up any leftover juices. Feel free to add more lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil on top for extra flavor.
How to Store Spinach Chicken & Orzo
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over low heat or microwave it until heated through.
Tips to Make Spinach Chicken & Orzo
- You can cook the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge to make the cooking process even faster.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to increase the nutritional value.
- Adjust the amount of feta and lemon juice to your taste for a creamier or zestier dish.
Variation
You can substitute the chicken with cooked shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. Additionally, using whole wheat orzo can make the dish healthier.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, you can use any small pasta like ditalini or couscous if you prefer.
2. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This recipe stores well, making it perfect for meal prep for the week.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables or even chickpeas for protein.
