Pin it This Mouthwatering Boursin Orzo Bake is the ultimate solution for a creamy, comforting dinner that requires minimal effort. Featuring tender chicken breasts, vibrant zucchini, and bell peppers, this dish centers around the lusciousness of Boursin garlic and herb cheese. Baked until golden and bubbling, it transforms simple orzo into a gourmet experience that the whole family will enjoy.
Pin it The beauty of this bake lies in how the chicken broth and melted cheese infuse every grain of orzo pasta. As it cooks under the foil, the flavors of garlic, Italian seasoning, and paprika meld together, creating a savory depth that perfectly complements the juicy chicken strips and softened vegetables.
Ingredients
- Pasta and Broth
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 3 cups chicken broth
- Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Vegetables
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Cheese and Garnish
- 1 package (about 5.2 oz/150g) Boursin garlic and herb cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish.
- Step 2
- Season the chicken strips with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Step 3
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken strips until golden (about 4–5 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- Step 4
- In the same skillet, sauté the garlic, zucchini, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper for 3–4 minutes until just softened.
- Step 5
- In the prepared baking dish, combine the orzo, sautéed vegetables, browned chicken, chicken broth, and Boursin cheese. Stir gently to distribute the cheese evenly.
- Step 6
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Step 7
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, until the orzo is creamy and lightly golden on top.
- Step 8
- Let rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best results, use a 9x13-inch baking dish to ensure the orzo is spread out enough to cook evenly. Ensure your aluminum foil is sealed tightly to trap the steam, which is essential for hydrating the pasta. You will need a large skillet to brown the chicken and soften the vegetables before they hit the oven.
Varianten und Anpassungen
To make this a vegetarian-friendly meal, simply omit the chicken and swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. If Boursin is unavailable, any soft garlic and herb cheese spread will produce a similarly delicious result. You can also vary the vegetables based on what you have in your crisper drawer, such as adding a handful of spinach at the end.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this hearty bake with a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the cheese. A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc pairs exceptionally well with the garlic and herb profile. Always remember to check your ingredient labels for potential allergens like milk (in the cheese), wheat (in the orzo), or soy traces.
Pin it Whether you're looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a comforting meal to share with guests, this Boursin Orzo Bake is a flavor-packed delight. With its golden-baked top and creamy interior, it’s a dish that brings everyone back for seconds. Enjoy this simple yet sophisticated modern American classic!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different cheese instead of Boursin?
Yes, any soft garlic and herb cheese spread works well as a flavorful substitute to maintain the creamy texture.
- → How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply omit the chicken and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetable-forward bake.
- → What is the best way to prevent the orzo from drying out?
Adding up to 1/2 cup extra broth before the final bake ensures the orzo remains moist and creamy.
- → How long should I brown the chicken strips?
Brown the chicken for 4 to 5 minutes until golden to develop flavor and retain juiciness.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the ingredients and refrigerate before baking. Bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes to cook through.