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Homemade Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo with Sun-Dried Tomatoes recipe photo

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is bursting with flavor and perfect for a quick, comforting weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound chicken breast diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Sharp Knife and Cutting Board
  • Grater
  • Colander

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in your skillet. Add the diced chicken breast, season with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. Cook, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
  2. Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same pan. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and remaining Italian seasoning, cooking for another 2 minutes.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the orzo pasta and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook uncovered for about 8-10 minutes, or until tender but still slightly firm.
  4. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir gently until cheese melts and sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Return cooked chicken to the pan along with fresh spinach. Stir until spinach wilts and chicken is heated through. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  6. Scoop the Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo with Sun-Dried Tomatoes into bowls, garnish with extra Parmesan if desired, and serve.

Notes

  • Use frozen chopped spinach as a substitute when fresh is unavailable; thaw and drain excess liquid before using.
  • Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to better control saltiness, especially when using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes.
  • Substitute heavy cream with a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter creamy sauce.