Creamy Garlic Spinach Orzo

If you’re craving a comforting yet fresh pasta dish, Creamy Garlic Spinach Orzo is your new go-to. This dish brings together tender orzo pasta coated in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce, brightened by vibrant, fresh spinach and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe hits all the right notes. Plus, with the option to add diced cooked chicken, it’s a complete, satisfying dish that’s simple to prepare and packed with flavor.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What I love most about this Creamy Garlic Spinach Orzo is how it balances richness with freshness. The garlic and Parmesan give the dish a warm, savory depth, while the spinach adds a burst of color and nutrients that keep it feeling light. Unlike heavier pasta dishes, orzo’s small, rice-like shape allows the creamy sauce to cling perfectly to each bite. This recipe is also incredibly versatile—easy to customize with protein or extra veggies—and comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s an easy way to elevate your pasta game without hours in the kitchen.

Your Shopping Guide

• Orzo Pasta: Look for good-quality orzo made from durum wheat for the best texture.
• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil brings the best flavor for sautéing garlic.
• Garlic: Fresh cloves, minced finely, deliver the most aromatic punch.
• Fresh Spinach: Baby spinach or regular fresh spinach, washed and chopped.
• Heavy Cream: This creates the silky sauce—choose full-fat for richness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds the perfect salty, nutty finish.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to taste.
• Cooked Chicken (optional): Skinless, boneless chicken breast or thigh, cooked and diced for added protein.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for garnish to add a fresh herbal note.

Tools of the Trade

• Large Skillet: For sautéing garlic and spinach evenly without overcrowding.
• Medium Saucepan: To cook orzo perfectly al dente.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For gentle stirring without scratching pans.
• Grater: To shred fresh Parmesan cheese.
• Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping garlic, spinach, chicken, and parsley.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To keep ingredients precise and balanced.

Creamy Garlic Spinach Orzo, Made Easy

Step 1: Cook the Orzo

Bring a medium saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add 1 cup of orzo pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water just in case you want to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Spinach

While the orzo cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Toss in the chopped fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat and pour 1 cup of heavy cream into the skillet with the spinach and garlic. Stir to combine and let the cream warm up gently for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Parmesan and Season

Stir 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese into the cream mixture until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired creaminess.

Step 5: Combine Orzo and Chicken (Optional)

Add the cooked orzo to the skillet, tossing to coat every grain in the creamy garlic spinach sauce. If using, fold in 1 cup of diced cooked chicken to make this a hearty main dish.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a bright, fresh finish. Serve immediately alongside crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

For a twist on the classic, try pairing this dish with Easy Garlic Bread—it’s the perfect accompaniment to soak up every last bit of creamy sauce!

Year-Round Variations

• Summer: Add sun-dried tomatoes and swap fresh spinach for baby kale for a different texture and flavor. Check out this fantastic Creamy Spinach Sun Dried Tomato Orzo for inspiration.
• Winter: Stir in roasted butternut squash or mushrooms for earthiness and extra heartiness.
• Protein Boost: Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu to suit your preferences.
• Cheese Swap: Try crumbled feta instead of Parmesan for a tangy, Mediterranean twist—similar to the flavors in Baked Feta Tomato Orzo Skillet.

Cook’s Notes

• Be careful not to overcook the garlic; it should be fragrant but not burnt to avoid bitterness.
• Reserve some pasta water before draining the orzo—it’s a great way to thin out the sauce without losing flavor.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best melting and taste—pre-grated cheese often contains additives that affect texture.
• If you want a lighter version, substitute half the heavy cream with whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

This dish stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to restore the creamy texture.

While freezing is possible, the cream sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. For best results, freeze in a sealed container for up to 1 month and reheat slowly, stirring often.

Ask the Chef

Can I make this dish vegan or dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew-based cream, and replace Parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor.

Is it okay to use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

You can, but be sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding to the skillet. Fresh spinach provides the best texture and flavor, though frozen works in a pinch.

What’s the best way to cook chicken for this recipe?

Grilling or pan-searing chicken breasts or thighs with a bit of seasoning works wonderfully. Cook until just done, then dice and fold into the orzo right before serving.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the orzo and spinach mixture separately, then combine and reheat before serving. Add fresh parsley just before serving to keep it vibrant.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Creamy Spinach Sun Dried Tomato Orzo – Another luscious orzo dish with a sun-dried tomato twist.
• Easy Garlic Bread – A perfect side to complement your creamy pasta dishes.
• Baked Feta Tomato Orzo Skillet – A rich, baked orzo recipe with bold Mediterranean flavors.

Let’s Eat

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of Creamy Garlic Spinach Orzo to bring comfort and joy to your dinner table. It’s a dish that’s simple, satisfying, and versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you keep it classic or customize with your favorite add-ins, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Grab your fork, dive in, and savor every creamy, garlicky bite!

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