Description
A cozy one-pan dinner with chicken, mushrooms, spinach, and lemon, finished with melted mozzarella and ricotta.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1 inch pieces
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 large shallot thinly sliced
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms sliced
- 4 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
- zest of 1/2 lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 3/4 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil sliced
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven safe skillet over medium high heat. Add chicken, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook until golden on the outside, about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally. Transfer chicken to a plate.
- In the same skillet add garlic, shallot, and mushrooms. Cook for about 4 minutes until softened and lightly browned.
- Reduce heat to medium and add spinach. Cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Pour in 1/2 cup chicken broth and simmer for 2 minutes to deglaze the pan.
- Stir in orzo, remaining broth, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and ricotta. Mix until creamy and combined.
- Return chicken to the skillet and stir to distribute evenly. Smooth into a single layer and sprinkle mozzarella over the top.
- Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 15 minutes until orzo is tender and cheese is melted and lightly golden.
- Remove from oven and rest for 5 minutes to allow sauce to thicken.
- Top with fresh basil and serve warm.
- Cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
Notes
- For a dairy free version, use a plant based ricotta and mozzarella alternative that melts well and keep all other ingredients the same.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 30 min
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American