Description
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo is a delightful, one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and the delicious bite of orzo pasta. It’s the perfect balance of rich and savory flavors, making it ideal for dinner any night of the week. The creamy texture and sun-dried tomatoes add a depth of flavor that you’ll fall in love with. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients
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2 chicken breasts, diced
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1 cup orzo pasta
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
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2 cups fresh spinach
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1 cup light cooking cream
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 cups chicken broth
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes until golden and cooked through, then set aside.
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In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
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Add orzo pasta to the skillet and toast for about 1 minute.
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Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook orzo for 8-10 minutes until tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
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Lower the heat and stir in the cooking cream and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Add more broth if the sauce is too thick.
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Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, followed by the fresh spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts and the chicken is coated in the creamy sauce.
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Adjust seasoning with the remaining Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
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For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
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If you prefer a dairy-free version, swap the cream for coconut cream and use dairy-free Parmesan.
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You can also add a handful of beans or chickpeas for more protein.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes