Name: Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts; 1 cup orzo pasta; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 2 cups baby spinach; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/3 cup parmesan cheese, grated; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

If you’re on the hunt for a satisfying dish that brings both comfort and convenience to your dinner table, look no further than Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo. This recipe offers the irresistible combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and beautifully cooked orzo pasta, making it a standout choice for weeknight meals and special occasions alike. Not only is it packed with flavor—from the rich garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to the savory parmesan cheese—but it’s also surprisingly easy to whip up in just one pan. Say goodbye to complicated preparations and hello to a silky, delectable dish that your whole family will love!

This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo isn’t just about great taste—it’s also wonderfully nutritious and offers a perfect balance of protein, carbs, and veggies. The chicken adds a hearty dose of protein, while the orzo provides a satisfying component. Adding baby spinach not only enhances the dish’s nutritional profile but also comes with a vibrant color that makes the meal visually appealing. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cleanup, this recipe is ideal for everyone, whether you’re an experienced cook or someone just starting out in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo

Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish cooks in about 40 minutes.
One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy hassle-free cleanup with everything prepared in a single skillet.
Flavor Pack: The combination of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy sauce delivers a taste sensation.
Nutritious: Packed with protein from chicken and a serving of vitamins from fresh spinach.
Family-Friendly: A dish that appeals to both kids and adults with its comforting flavors.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into your creamy culinary adventure, make sure your kitchen is well-prepared for success. Start by gathering your ingredients: chicken breasts, orzo pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, baby spinach, garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Having everything at hand will streamline your cooking process.

Next, make sure you have a large skillet or sauté pan ready, as this will be your primary cookware for the dish. A wooden spoon or spatula will also come in handy for stirring. If you’ve got a cutting board and knife for prepping the chicken and tomatoes, grab those too. Setting your workspace up for success will allow you to focus on creating this delectable meal.

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts
1 cup orzo pasta
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 cups baby spinach
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup parmesan cheese, grated
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. This step not only enhances the chicken’s flavor but also helps with browning when seared, giving it that perfect golden crust.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear for approximately 5–6 minutes on each side, until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate, letting it rest while you build the sauce.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes

In the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Immediately add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for another minute to bring out their flavors and intensify the dish.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo

Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the orzo pasta, ensuring it is fully submerged in the broth. Cook for approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is tender and has absorbed a good amount of the broth. This allows the pasta to soak up all the rich flavors!

Step 5: Create a Creamy Sauce

Once the orzo is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the sauce is creamy and well mixed, creating a luscious consistency.

Step 6: Add Spinach

Add the fresh baby spinach to the orzo mixture and stir until it wilts, which should take just a couple of minutes. This step adds color, texture, and nutrients to the dish.

Step 7: Combine Chicken and Simmer

Slice the cooked chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces, then return it to the skillet with the orzo mixture. Allow it to simmer together for 2–3 minutes so the chicken reheats and absorbs some of the sauce.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

At this point, your creamy sun-dried tomato chicken orzo is ready to be plated! Garnish with additional grated parmesan if desired, and serve warm.

Variations

Protein: Substitute chicken with shrimp or use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
Vegetables: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for more veggies.
Spices: Enhance flavor with crushed red pepper or fresh herbs like basil or oregano.

Cooking Notes

For creaminess, ensure to use full-fat heavy cream and freshly grated parmesan cheese.
Don’t overcook the orzo; it should be al dente as it continues to cook while simmering.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with a side salad for a refreshing contrast.
Serve with crusty bread to mop up any delicious creamy sauce.

Tips

Prep all ingredients beforehand to streamline the cooking process.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, especially with salt and pepper.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 600 per serving
Protein: 34g
Sodium: 800mg

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and orzo, then add the chicken and spinach just before serving to keep everything freshly cooked.

What can I use instead of orzo?

If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice, though the cooking times may vary.

Can I freeze leftovers?

It’s best to eat this dish fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated for 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth.

What should I serve with this orzo dish?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully with this creamy dish, enhancing its comforting flavors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo recipe is bound to impress with its incredible flavor and uncomplicated approach. Whether you’re whipping up a meal for family or entertaining guests, this dish is both comforting and sophisticated, making it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to try out different variations and make it your own! We’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so don’t hesitate to leave a comment below or share your own twists on this delightful recipe!