Creamy Pesto Chicken Orzo Bake

Looking for a quick and delicious dinner option? This Creamy Pesto Chicken Orzo Bake is the answer! One Pot Chicken Orzo is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Juicy chicken seasoned with chili flakes pairs perfectly with tender orzo, roasted red peppers, and fresh spinach, making it a satisfying meal that's high in protein.

Imagine a dish that combines creamy pesto with high protein chicken, all baked together in one pot. This orzo recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it's a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Easy and Flavorful Chicken Orzo Bake

This Creamy Pesto Chicken Orzo Bake is a delightful mix of juicy chicken, tender orzo, and vibrant vegetables, all enveloped in a rich and creamy pesto sauce.

The result is a comforting dish that's not only quick to make but also packed with flavors and nutrition.

Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pot chicken orzo recipe combines high protein chicken with a blend of textures and tastes, making it a go-to for families and friends alike.

Ingredients That Shine

The dish is built on a foundation of fresh and wholesome ingredients.

Starting with orzo pasta, it provides a chewy, delightful base that pairs beautifully with the other components.

Juicy chicken breast is seasoned to perfection, while roasted red peppers add a pop of color and sweetness.

Fresh spinach contributes not only nutrition but also a burst of greenery that enhances the visual appeal of the bake.

The Creamy Pesto Element

What truly brings this dish together is the creamy pesto sauce.

This luscious green sauce coats the orzo and chicken, infusing each bite with rich flavors that are simply irresistible.

The addition of heavy cream creates a velvety texture that elevates the overall experience, making it comforting and satisfying.

Perfect Cheese Topping

A generous sprinkling of shredded mozzarella cheese tops off the bake, transforming it into a golden and bubbly masterpiece.

Baking the dish until the cheese melts and becomes slightly crisp adds an appealing finish, making it hard to resist serving immediately.

This combination of creamy, cheesy goodness is bound to please even the pickiest of eaters.

The Rustic Presentation

Served in a rustic oven-safe skillet, this dish looks as good as it tastes.

The skillet not only retains heat but also adds a charming touch to your dining table.

Sprinkling fresh herbs around the baked orzo gives a touch of freshness that complements the rich flavors, inviting everyone to dig in.

Quick and Nourishing Meal

What makes this Creamy Pesto Chicken Orzo Bake truly special is its simplicity.

With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a total cooking time of 30 minutes, you can have a nourishing meal ready in a flash.

This dish is not only satisfying but also provides a balanced meal packed with high-quality protein, making it an excellent choice for those focusing on their nutritional intake.

Easy and Flavorful Chicken Orzo Bake

This Creamy Pesto Chicken Orzo Bake is a delightful mix of juicy chicken, tender orzo, and vibrant vegetables, all enveloped in a rich and creamy pesto sauce. The result is a comforting dish that's not only quick to make but also packed with flavors and nutrition.

Ingredients

• 2 cups orzo pasta
• 1 lb chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup pesto sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the orzo, roasted red peppers, and spinach. Mix well.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and pesto sauce, and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer.
5. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and serve hot.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: 550kcal
• Fat: 28g
• Protein: 40g
• Carbohydrates: 45g

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