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Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo

This creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo is an easy one pot dinner made with tender chicken, garlic, parmesan cheese, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and orzo pasta simmered in a rich creamy sauce. It is cozy, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb chicken breast diced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese grated
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken along with the salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden on the outside and fully cooked in the center.
  2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and stir well. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  3. Add the uncooked orzo pasta to the skillet. Stir well so the pasta becomes coated in the oil and seasonings. Cook for 1 minute to lightly toast the orzo.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir gently while scraping the bottom of the skillet to loosen any browned bits. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  5. Cook uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring every few minutes. The orzo will absorb the liquid and the sauce will become thick and creamy. Add a splash of extra broth if needed.
  6. Stir in the fresh spinach and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the spinach wilts.
  7. Sprinkle in the grated parmesan cheese while stirring continuously. Mix until the cheese melts completely into the sauce and the mixture becomes creamy.
  8. Remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest for 2 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil and extra parmesan cheese before serving.

Notes

  • Stir the pasta often so it does not stick.
  • Freshly grated parmesan melts best.
  • Add extra broth if the orzo absorbs too much liquid.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.