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Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo: Your New Favorite Comfort Meal

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo is a comforting one-pan dish featuring tender chicken, luscious garlic-Parmesan cream sauce, and vibrant spinach.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 620

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound chicken breast or chicken thighs for added flavor
For the Orzo
  • 1 cup orzo pasta whole wheat orzo can be used
For the Sauce
  • 3 cloves garlic fresh garlic preferred
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers if desired
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half for a lighter version
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese can substitute Pecorino Romano for sharper flavor
For the Greens
  • 2 cups spinach or other leafy greens

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, toss in diced chicken breast and season with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 6–8 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate.
  2. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add a bit more olive oil if needed. Toss in minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, sautéing for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the orzo pasta, mixing well to coat it in the aromatic mixture. Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, stirring to combine. Raise the heat to bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Allow the orzo to cook for about 10–12 minutes or until it's tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Once the orzo is al dente and most of the broth is absorbed, return the sautéed chicken to the skillet. Stir gently to incorporate the chicken into the orzo. Let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes.
  5. Fold in fresh spinach, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese into the pan. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce has thickened.
  6. Taste the Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper as desired. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 620kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 14gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3.5mg

Notes

This recipe is customizable; feel free to substitute proteins and vegetables based on your preferences. Perfect for pairing with garlic bread or a side salad.

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