Tuscan Chicken Orzo: Easy One-Pan Creamy Recipe

Creamy Tuscan chicken orzo with seared chicken, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, herbs, and Parmesan cream sauce cooked in a skillet.

This Tuscan Chicken Orzo Dinner is a dream come true for anyone who wants a gourmet dinner without the mountain of dishes. Since it combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach in a velvety sauce, your family will surely fall in love with every bite. Furthermore, the orzo cooks right in the same pan, which makes the entire process incredibly efficient.

Why This Tuscan Chicken Orzo Recipe Works

First, the one-pan method allows the orzo to absorb all the savory flavors from the chicken and broth. Additionally, the addition of sun-dried tomatoes provides a tangy contrast to the rich heavy cream. Because this meal takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, it is an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Consequently, you can enjoy a high-quality meal even on your most hectic days.

Ingredients

1 lb Chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1.5 cups Orzo pasta (uncooked)
3 cups Chicken broth
1/2 cup Heavy cream
1/2 cup Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 cups Fresh spinach
3 cloves Garlic, minced
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Olive oil, salt, and pepper

Step by Step Instructions

Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken pieces and sear them until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the pan and set it aside for a moment.
In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes until they become fragrant.
Add the dry orzo to the pan and toast it slightly for about one minute.
Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Cook the orzo for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally so it does not stick to the bottom.
Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and fresh spinach until the greens have wilted.
Finally, return the chicken to the pan and toss everything together until the sauce is thick and creamy.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people

Pro Tips for the Best Tuscan Chicken Orzo

To ensure the best texture, make sure you stir the orzo frequently as it absorbs the liquid. Moreover, you can add a splash of lemon juice at the end to brighten up the heavy flavors. If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add a little extra broth to reach your desired consistency. Therefore, you can easily customize the dish to your preference.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you are ready to reheat, add a tablespoon of water or milk to help the sauce become creamy again. However, keep in mind that the orzo will continue to soak up liquid as it sits. Still, it remains a delicious lunch option for the following day.

Tuscan Chicken Orzo FAQ

Can I use chicken thighs? Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs are a great, juicy alternative.
Is orzo a rice or pasta? Orzo is actually a small pasta shaped like rice.

Can I substitute the spinach? Absolutely, kale or chopped asparagus would also work beautifully in this dish.

If you enjoyed this Tuscan Chicken Orzo, you must try our Tuscan Sausage & Orzo Skillet for another creamy one-pan favorite.