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Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo is a one-pan, under-40-minute meal loaded with tender chicken, fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce. Pantry staples meet fresh flavor in this comforting dinner recipe.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 570
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced Substitute with chicken thighs or turkey breast.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil Substitute with butter or avocado oil.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Use 1.5 tsp jarred minced garlic as a shortcut.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Swap with diced Roma or fire-roasted canned tomatoes.
  • 2 cups fresh spinach Use baby kale or arugula for variation.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Substitute with half-and-half or coconut milk.
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast are alternatives.
  • 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning DIY mix: basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary.
  • Salt & black pepper To taste.
  • Crushed red pepper flakes Optional. Add cayenne or paprika for extra heat.
  • 1 cup orzo Substitute with short-grain rice or gluten-free pasta.

Method
 

Prepare the Chicken
  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced chicken to the pan, season generously with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  3. Sear for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden-brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics
  1. Lower the heat slightly and add the minced garlic to the pan. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized.
Cook the Orzo
  1. Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and bring it to a gentle boil.
  2. Stir in the uncooked orzo, ensuring it’s fully submerged in the broth. Simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the orzo is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Combine Ingredients
  1. Add the spinach to the skillet, letting it wilt for about 1 minute.
  2. Pour in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
  3. Toss the cooked chicken back into the skillet, ensuring every piece is coated in the sauce.
Season and Garnish
  1. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or crushed red pepper for a spicy kick.
  2. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of chopped parsley for an added punch of flavor and color.

Nutrition

Calories: 570kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 42gFat: 31gSaturated Fat: 16gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1700IUVitamin C: 14mgCalcium: 220mgIron: 2.2mg

Notes

This one-pot meal is perfect for weeknights. Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream.

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