Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo: A Rich, One-Pot Italian-Inspired Comfort Dish

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo: A Rich, One-Pot Italian-Inspired Comfort Dish

Author: Chef Elsa Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 30 min Total Time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings Category: Dishes Cuisine: Italian Diet: Gluten-Free option available, Dairy

Description

Description A rich, one-pot Italian-inspired comfort dish featuring creamy orzo pasta, seared chicken, and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes and spinach.

Ingredients

  • 1.25 – 1.5 lbs chicken breasts, cubed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups dry orzo pasta
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 heaping cup fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup sliced sun-dried tomatoes in oil
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
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Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry, cut into cubes, and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and half the Italian seasoning.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove chicken from pan.
  3. Add butter to the same skillet, melt, and cook onions until translucent, about 4–5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  4. Stir in orzo and toast for about 1 minute.
  5. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and cook uncovered for about 8–10 minutes, stirring regularly.
  6. Stir in heavy cream, parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, crushed red pepper flakes, and remaining Italian seasoning. Return seared chicken to the pan.
  7. Simmer until chicken reaches 165°F and the sauce is creamy.
  8. Add spinach and adjust seasoning as needed; serve garnished with parsley.

Notes

  1. Notes
  2. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for 3–4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.