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This one-pan Monterey Chicken Orzo is the definition of weeknight comfort I whip it up when I need something hearty and foolproof with barely any dishes to wash afterward Everyone asks for seconds and it is the easiest dump and bake dinner I know
The first time I served this at a potluck it disappeared before anything else I now keep the ingredients on hand for last-minute guests or busy nights
Ingredients
- Cream of chicken with herbs: brings rich savory flavor and creamy texture look for low-sodium if preferred
- Sour cream: adds tang and keeps the orzo extra luscious opt for full fat for best results
- Chicken stock: enhances flavor and ensures the orzo cooks up fluffy and not dry homemade or store-bought both work
- Fresh garlic cloves: lift up the taste use plump cloves for strongest flavor
- All-purpose seasoning: gives layers of spice and warmth mix up your own blend for max freshness
- Salt and freshly cracked pepper: balance and boost the other flavors grind fresh pepper for more punch
- Fresh spinach leaves: boost nutrition and add beautiful color choose crisp leaves or thaw frozen if that is all you have
- Dry orzo: creates the perfect base and soaks up all the flavor choose a good brand for best texture
- Monterey Jack cheese: melts smoothly for creamy richness and mild bite shred your own for ultimate melt
- Rotisserie chicken: gives a shortcut to protein choose moist and well-seasoned meat
- French crispy fried onions: deliver crunch and savory finish choose fresh for extra crisp
Step by Step Instructions
- Prepare the Casserole Dish:
- Grease a nine by thirteen inch casserole with butter or nonstick spray This keeps everything from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze Preheat your oven to three hundred fifty degrees so the bake time is accurate
- Mix the Sauces and Seasonings:
- In the casserole dish combine the cream of chicken soup sour cream and chicken stock Toss in all-purpose seasoning salt pepper and the minced garlic Whisk until everything is smooth and no lumps remain This base is what turns plain orzo into dinner magic
- Add the Greens Chicken and Orzo:
- Layer in the torn spinach rotisserie chicken half the cheese and all the dried orzo Stir everything gently right in the dish so the flavors distribute evenly You want the orzo to touch plenty of liquid for even cooking
- Top and Bake:
- Sprinkle the rest of the Monterey Jack over the top so you get cheesy bites on each scoop Finish with an even layer of crispy fried onions Cover tightly with foil and bake for twenty five minutes
- Finish Without the Foil:
- Remove the foil and bake ten to fifteen minutes more Your goal is a golden crust of onions and bubbling edges This final bake keeps the onions crisp
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Cheesy Monterey Jack is my favorite part so I always grate my own for the best melt Last Thanksgiving this was the surprise hit at our leftovers dinner Even my spinach skeptics were converted
Storage Tips
Monterey Chicken Orzo keeps well in the refrigerator for three to four days Store in a tightly covered dish Reheat gently in the oven or microwave adding a splash of stock if you want to loosen it up The fried onions stay crisper if you reheat uncovered
Ingredient Substitutions
No fresh spinach No problem Swap with thawed frozen spinach but squeeze it dry first If you are out of Monterey Jack try shredded cheddar mozzarella or a blend Leftover roasted chicken works just as well as rotisserie
Serving Suggestions
Spoon this casserole into bowls for pure comfort You can brighten things up with a green salad and some sliced tomatoes on the side For a family feast serve with garlic bread or roasted veggies
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A Bit of Context
Monterey Chicken takes its cue from the cheesy chicken dishes of American diners Paired with orzo this version offers a fun twist on classic casseroles I love how orzo soaks up the sauce baking up tender and never mushy
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use fresh or frozen spinach?
Both fresh and frozen spinach work well. If using frozen, be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding.
- → Can I substitute the Monterey Jack cheese?
Yes, feel free to swap Monterey Jack with cheddar, mozzarella, or a cheese blend you prefer for similar melt and flavor.
- → Is it necessary to use rotisserie chicken?
Rotisserie chicken makes for quick prep, but you can use any cooked, shredded chicken instead for convenience.
- → What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
Substitute with equal parts homemade white sauce or a low-sodium canned option if you wish to customize flavors.
- → How can I make the dish ahead of time?
Assemble all ingredients in the casserole dish, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes if cold.