Tuscan Chicken Orzo is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. It’s a one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, creamy orzo pasta, and a medley of delicious ingredients to create a comforting and hearty dish. Let’s dive into the recipe and see how you can easily prepare this delightful meal.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 3/4 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk
- 2 large handfuls fresh spinach
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season and Sear the Chicken:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add the cubed chicken.
- Season the chicken with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook the chicken until it is browned on all sides but not fully cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Orzo
- Add Orzo and Broth:
- Pour the orzo into the skillet with the chicken and garlic mixture.
- Add the chicken broth and stir well to combine.
- Simmer Until Tender:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Step 3: Add Creaminess and Flavor
- Add Cream and Spinach:
- Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) until well combined.
- Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Incorporate Parmesan Cheese:
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well incorporated into the dish.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
- Adjust Seasonings:
- Taste and adjust the seasonings with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
- Serve the Tuscan Chicken Orzo hot, straight from the skillet.
Tips for Success
- Chicken: Ensure the chicken is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer.
- Orzo: Keep an eye on the orzo while it simmers to make sure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan. Stir occasionally.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Choose sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for extra flavor. Drain them well before chopping.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach works best, but you can use frozen spinach if you thaw and drain it well beforehand.
- Cream: For a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like almond milk.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Cheesy Delight: Add more types of cheese like mozzarella or provolone for an extra cheesy version.
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dish for some heat.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of broth or cream to keep it moist.
Tuscan Chicken Orzo is a fantastic dish that combines the savory flavors of chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach with the creaminess of Parmesan cheese and orzo pasta. It’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights, offering both comfort and deliciousness in every bite. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Bon Appétit!
