Description
Chicken Bacon Ranch Orzo is a creamy, hearty one-pot meal combining crispy bacon, tender orzo pasta, shredded chicken, and fresh spinach, all infused with zesty ranch seasoning. This comforting dish is quick to prepare, making it perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Bacon
- 6 strips bacon, cut into small pieces
Pasta and Broth
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
Dairy and Seasoning
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Protein and Vegetables
- 2 cups cooked shredded or rotisserie chicken
- 2 cups packed fresh baby spinach
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon: Cut the bacon into small pieces using kitchen shears for ease. Fry the bacon in a Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat until crispy. Leave the bacon grease in the pot for added flavor.
- Toast the Orzo: Add the uncooked orzo directly to the pot with the bacon and bacon fat. Stir constantly and cook for about one minute to lightly toast the pasta and infuse it with flavor.
- Add Broth and Cream: Pour in the low sodium chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer with Seasoning: Once the mixture starts bubbling gently, stir in the ranch seasoning. Reduce the heat to medium or medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking and to allow the orzo to absorb the liquid and cook through without boiling too vigorously.
- Finish with Chicken and Spinach: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the shredded chicken and fresh baby spinach. Cover the pot and let it sit for 3-5 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and the chicken to warm through while the orzo thickens to the desired consistency.
- Serve: Spoon the orzo mixture into bowls and top with freshly grated parmesan cheese if desired for an extra layer of flavor.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep time.
- Adjust the ranch seasoning to your taste or use homemade ranch blend for customization.
- Make sure to keep the heat low during simmering to avoid the cream curdling or the pasta cooking unevenly.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
