Mouthwatering Boursin Orzo Bake Recipe

Introduction

This mouthwatering Boursin Orzo Bake combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and creamy Boursin cheese for a comforting, flavorful meal. Easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners, it offers rich taste with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 package Boursin garlic and herb cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a large baking dish.
2. Step 2: Season the chicken strips with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried Italian seasoning.
3. Step 3: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the chicken strips until golden on all sides, then remove from heat and set aside.
4. Step 4: In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic, sliced zucchini, diced red and yellow bell peppers until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Step 5: In the prepared baking dish, combine the orzo pasta, sautéed vegetables, browned chicken, chicken broth, and Boursin cheese. Stir gently to mix.
6. Step 6: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Step 7: Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the bake is creamy and lightly golden on top.
8. Step 8: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For extra richness, stir in a splash of cream or a handful of shredded mozzarella before baking.
• Swap chicken for cooked sausage or turkey for a different protein option.
• Add mushrooms or spinach among the vegetables for more flavor and nutrition.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes when seasoning the chicken.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to maintain creaminess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or small shells can be substituted, but adjust the baking time as needed since different pastas may cook faster or slower.

Is it necessary to brown the chicken before baking?

Browning the chicken adds extra flavor and a nice texture but you can skip this step if short on time; just be sure to fully cook the chicken while baking.

Mouthwatering Boursin Orzo Bake Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 131 reviews

This Mouthwatering Boursin Orzo Bake is a creamy, flavorful one-dish meal featuring tender chicken, sautéed vegetables, and orzo pasta baked to perfection with garlic and herb Boursin cheese. Easy to prepare and comforting, it’s perfect for a hearty family dinner.

• Author: Rico
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Proteins

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips

Vegetables

• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Pasta and Dairy

• 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
• 1 package Boursin garlic and herb cheese (around 5.2 oz)

Liquids and Oils

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cups chicken broth

Spices and Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a large baking dish to prepare it for the orzo bake.
2. Season Chicken: Season the chicken strips with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried Italian seasoning evenly to infuse flavor.
3. Brown Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the seasoned chicken strips until they turn golden on all sides; then remove and set aside.
4. Sauté Vegetables and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sliced zucchini along with the diced red and yellow bell peppers. Sauté until the vegetables are slightly softened and fragrant.
5. Combine Ingredients: Transfer the sautéed vegetables, browned chicken, orzo pasta, chicken broth, and Boursin garlic and herb cheese into the greased baking dish. Stir gently to evenly combine all ingredients.
6. Bake Covered: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, allowing the orzo to cook and the flavors to meld.
7. Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the top is creamy, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve warm for a delicious, comforting meal.

Notes

• For best results, use fresh Boursin cheese and good-quality chicken broth.
• You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs if preferred.
• If you want a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when seasoning the chicken.
• To make ahead, assemble the dish and refrigerate unbaked, then bake when ready.
• Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on stovetop or oven.

Keywords: Boursin orzo bake, creamy orzo, chicken and orzo casserole, baked orzo pasta, garlic herb cheese dish, easy one-pot meal