Name: Baked Chicken Orzo with Boursin Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (such as from a rotisserie chicken); 1 ½ cups orzo pasta; 5.3 ounces Boursin cheese; 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes; 2 cups baby spinach; 3 cups low-sodium chicken stock; ¼ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; Cooking spray (for coating the baking dish)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 9 reviews

The Baked Chicken Orzo with Boursin Cheese Recipe is pure comfort food magic, combining tender shredded chicken, creamy Boursin cheese, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta in one delightful dish. This recipe brings together fresh flavors and a cozy texture that easily becomes a family favorite, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma and your plate with vibrant colors. It’s an effortless, one-dish meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome, perfect for busy weeknights or a special gathering with friends. Trust me, once you try this, it will quickly become your go-to for a satisfying yet elegant dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white rectangular baking dish holds a dish with three main layers visible: the bottom layer is a light, clear broth with shredded white chicken spread evenly across; the middle layer features bright red cherry tomatoes scattered all over; and at the center sits a round mound of creamy white cheese mixed with herbs. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface with a white bowl of fresh green spinach leaves in the top left corner and two spinach leaves scattered on the surface nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe relies on a few simple yet essential ingredients that each play a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. Every component works harmoniously, making the dish bright, creamy, and heartwarming.

3 cups cooked shredded chicken: Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds succulent flavor.
1 ½ cups orzo pasta: This small, rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and soaks up the flavors beautifully.
3 cups low-sodium chicken stock: Provides the perfect cooking liquid without overpowering salty notes.
¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Just enough salt to enhance every ingredient without masking freshness.
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a gentle hint of warmth and spice.
5.3 ounces of Boursin cheese: The star ingredient giving the dish a rich, herby, and creamy finish.
1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes: Bursting with juiciness and adding a lovely pop of color.
2 cups baby spinach: For a boost of vibrant green and a tender, nutritious bite.

How to Make Baked Chicken Orzo with Boursin Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 425°F. This high temperature is perfect for baking the orzo quickly while melting the Boursin cheese into a luscious creamy sauce. Grab a 9×13 ceramic baking dish and lightly coat it with cooking spray – this will keep everything from sticking and make cleanup much easier.

Step 2: Combine the Main Ingredients

Next, mix together the shredded chicken, orzo pasta, chicken stock, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper right in your baking dish. Stir them gently to combine everything evenly. Then nestle the Boursin cheese in the center, letting it melt in the oven and create a rich, herbed core. Sprinkle the cherry tomatoes evenly over the top for those little bursts of sweetness and color. Resist the urge to stir here—this layering helps create beautiful texture as it bakes.

Step 3: Bake Covered

Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake it for 30 minutes. During this time, the orzo absorbs the savory broth, the chicken stays moist, and the cheese melts into a dreamy sauce. The foil traps steam, which helps everything cook evenly without drying out.

Step 4: Add Spinach and Finish Baking

After 30 minutes, remove the foil and add your fresh baby spinach. Give everything a good stir to combine the greens with the cheesy, tomato-studded orzo. The spinach wilts down beautifully in the residual heat, adding freshness and nutritional goodness. Return the dish to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the orzo is tender and fully cooked through.

How to Serve Baked Chicken Orzo with Boursin Cheese Recipe

A white rectangular casserole dish filled with a creamy orzo pasta mixed with shredded light-colored chicken pieces, whole and halved bright red cherry tomatoes, and dark green spinach leaves. The dish is topped with a generous amount of fresh chopped parsley scattered over the top. A large silver spoon rests inside the dish, scooping up some of the mixture. The casserole dish is placed on a white marbled surface with some fresh parsley and cherry tomatoes nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation and add an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over the top just before serving. A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice also pairs wonderfully with the creamy, hearty base, brightening every bite.

Side Dishes

This dish shines as a standalone meal, but if you want to round it out, a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables complement it beautifully. Since the main dish is hearty and creamy, lighter, fresh sides help balance the richness and keep the meal feeling vibrant.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, serve the baked chicken orzo in individual ramekins or shallow bowls, topped with a cherry tomato halve and a small basil leaf for garnish. You can also pair it with crusty garlic bread to soak up every last bit of that delicious sauce. The colorful layers and creamy texture make it an eye-catching dish that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from the Baked Chicken Orzo with Boursin Cheese Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop even more overnight, making it a great option for next-day lunches or dinners.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months, but be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Because of the creamy cheese component, the texture might change slightly upon reheating, but stirring it well will bring back much of the original creaminess.

Reheating

To reheat, place your portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring gently between each interval to distribute the heat evenly. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of chicken stock or water if it seems too thick. This helps refresh the flavors and prevents dryness.

FAQs

Can I use another type of cheese instead of Boursin?

Absolutely! While Boursin gives this recipe its signature creamy and herby flavor, you can try cream cheese mixed with garlic and herbs or a soft goat cheese as alternatives. Just keep in mind the flavor profile will change slightly.

Is rotisserie chicken necessary for this recipe?

Not at all. Rotisserie chicken is just a convenient option that adds great flavor and saves time. You can use leftover roasted chicken, grilled chicken breasts, or even cooked chicken thighs shredded finely.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can swap out the orzo pasta for a gluten-free small pasta or even substitute with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist. Keep in mind cooking times and liquid ratios may vary slightly.

How do I prevent the orzo from sticking together?

Stirring the dish halfway through cooking, especially after adding the spinach, helps prevent clumping. Additionally, ensuring enough liquid is present and covering the dish during baking traps steam, which keeps the orzo tender and separate.

What can I do if I don’t have chicken stock on hand?

You can substitute with vegetable stock or even water mixed with a bit of salt and seasoning. The flavor will be milder, but the dish will still be delicious with the richness from the Boursin cheese.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Chicken Orzo with Boursin Cheese Recipe is one of those rare dishes that hits all the right notes: creamy, comforting, flavorful, and simple to prepare. It’s a quick, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate and a wonderful way to impress anyone with minimal effort. I encourage you to give it a try—you might find it becomes a staple in your rotation just like it did in mine!