Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo

Name: Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cubed; 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 cup spinach, fresh; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 2 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the rich and creamy flavors of this delightful Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo recipe. This mouthwatering dish combines tender chicken breast, juicy sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and al dente orzo pasta in a luscious garlic Parmesan sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy-to-make one-pot meal brings a taste of the Italian countryside to your kitchen while keeping cleanup to a minimum.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-20T04:34:10.551Z

Taste of Italy

The Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo delivers the essence of Italian cuisine right in your home. With its succulent chicken, vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach, each bite transports you to the charming countryside of Tuscany. This dish showcases the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a delightful experience for your palate. The rich garlic Parmesan sauce further enhances the overall flavor, creating a comforting meal that is both satisfying and elegant.

Orzo, a small rice-shaped pasta, adds a unique twist to traditional pasta dishes while also soaking up the luscious sauce. This pairing allows for an immersive eating experience, highlighting the dish's diverse ingredients. Moreover, the sun-dried tomatoes bring an intense sweetness and a hint of acidity that complements the creamy elements beautifully. It’s a dish that not only fills your stomach but also warms your heart.

Quick & Easy Preparation

One of the best features of this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo is how quickly it can be prepared. In just about 30 minutes, you can create a mouthwatering meal that feels gourmet. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when hosting guests. The one-pot method also simplifies the cooking process, meaning less time spent on cleanup. You can enjoy all the flavor without the fuss.

Simply prepare your ingredients and follow the steps, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish ready to serve. The straightforward cooking instructions ensure that even novice cooks can successfully make this delightful recipe. So gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into creating a comforting, soul-satisfying meal that will leave a lasting impression.

Versatile Meal Option

This creamy orzo dish is versatile and can be easily adapted to suit different dietary preferences. For a lighter version, consider using skinless chicken breast or even substituting the chicken with mushrooms or zucchini for a plant-based option. You can also adjust the cream and cheese levels for a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor.

Moreover, feel free to tweak the vegetable ingredients. Adding bell peppers, artichokes, or even peas can provide additional nutrition and flavor. This adaptability means that the Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo can become a staple dish in your home—enjoyed differently each time while maintaining its core appeal.

Ingredients

For the Dish

1 lb chicken breast, cubed
1 cup orzo pasta
1 cup spinach, fresh
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Cook the Chicken

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken breast, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Garlic and Tomatoes

Stir in the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Cook the Orzo

Add the orzo and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Finish with Cream and Spinach

Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and fresh spinach. Cook until the spinach has wilted and the sauce has thickened, about 3-5 minutes.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Serving Suggestions

When serving Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo, consider pairing it with a fresh garden salad or some crusty garlic bread to complement the rich flavors of the dish. A light vinaigrette salad can provide a refreshing balance to the creamy pasta. If you're feeling adventurous, drizzle a little balsamic glaze on top before serving for an added layer of flavor.

For wine enthusiasts, a glass of crisp white wine or a light red can enhance the dining experience. A Chardonnay with its buttery notes or a Pinot Noir with its fruity characteristics can beautifully accompany the dish, making your meal feel even more special.

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, you’re in for a treat! Store any remaining Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating it is easy; just add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent the orzo from drying out and warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Portion it out in airtight containers and store for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned. This makes it a convenient meal prep option for busy days ahead.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with any small pasta, but cooking times may vary.

→ How can I make this dish lighter?

You can substitute heavy cream with light cream or Greek yogurt to reduce calories.