Description
How to make creamy Tuscan chicken orzo with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach that’s a one-pan wonder your family will love.
Ingredients
- Base/Main Components:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1.5 cups uncooked orzo pasta
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained and chopped)
- 5 oz fresh spinach
- Flavor Builders:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- Seasonings/Spices:
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Finishing/Toppings:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown; it doesn’t need to be cooked through. This builds a flavor base for your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo One-Pan.
- Build Flavor: Remove chicken, set aside. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the pan, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the uncooked orzo and chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
- Simmer Orzo: Return chicken to the pan. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The orzo should be tender and most liquid absorbed. Stir well to prevent sticking, ensuring a creamy texture for your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo One-Pan.
- Creamy Finish: Uncover the pan. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to gently simmer for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken beautifully. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.
- Wilt Spinach: Remove the pan from heat. Add fresh spinach, stirring until it wilts into the creamy orzo mixture. The residual heat will perfectly cook the spinach. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, ensuring a balanced Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo One-Pan.
- Garnish & Serve: Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately, enjoying this comforting one-pan delight. A quick tip: a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest can brighten the flavors beautifully.
Notes
Continuously stir orzo during simmering to prevent sticking and burning, ensuring a creamy texture.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days; reheat gently with broth or cream.
Chicken thighs are an excellent substitute for breasts, often adding more flavor and moisture to the dish.
Serve warm, garnished with parsley and Parmesan, ideally with a crisp side salad or crusty garlic bread.
Prep by chopping chicken and sun-dried tomatoes a day ahead; cook orzo and sauce fresh for best texture.
Bloom Italian seasoning with garlic at the start to deepen the overall flavor profile of the dish.
**Allergy Information:** Dairy, Gluten