Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo Recipe

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo is one of my favorite weeknight dinners. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. I love how the orzo pasta cooks up creamy and delicious in the skillet, and the combination of chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan cheese is just perfect.

It’s a great recipe to have in your back pocket for those busy evenings when you don’t have a lot of time to cook but still want a satisfying and flavorful meal. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo

• Flavorful and Satisfying: This dish is bursting with flavor, thanks to the combination of herbs, spices, and creamy sauce. It’s also incredibly satisfying, thanks to the protein from the chicken and the heartiness of the orzo.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe is a breeze to make, even for beginner cooks. You’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in just 30 minutes!
• One-Pan Wonder: This dish is made in just one pan, which means less cleanup for you.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this dish with different vegetables, herbs, or protein.

this Recipe

Ingredients for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo

Here’s what I use to make this delicious dish:

• Olive Oil: For searing the chicken and sautéing the vegetables.
• Chicken Breasts: I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the sauce.
• Shallot: A finely chopped shallot adds a mild onion flavor.
• Garlic: Finely chopped garlic adds a punch of flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but I like to add a pinch for a touch of heat.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a concentrated tomato flavor and a chewy texture.
• Orzo: This small pasta shape is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• White Cooking Wine: Adds a depth of flavor and helps to deglaze the pan.
• Dijon Mustard: Optional, but I like the tanginess it adds to the sauce.
• Fresh Thyme: Adds a fresh, herby flavor.
• Vegetable Stock: I use vegetable stock for this recipe, but you can also use chicken stock or water.
• Heavy Cream: Creates a rich and creamy sauce.
• Fresh Spinach: Adds nutrients and a pop of color.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor.
• Fresh Basil: Adds a fresh, herby flavor and a beautiful garnish.
• Lemon Juice: Adds a bright, citrusy flavor to the sauce.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Variations

Want to try something different? Here are a few ideas:

• Veggie Delight: Add some other vegetables, like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Protein Power: Swap out the chicken for shrimp, sausage, or tofu.
• Creamy Twist: Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
• Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

I start by slicing the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to make them thinner. Then, I season them with salt and pepper and sear them in a large skillet or cast iron pan with olive oil over medium-high heat. Once they’re golden brown on both sides, I remove them from the pan and set them aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, I add the butter, shallot, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). I cook them until they’re soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Toast the Orzo

I add the sun-dried tomatoes and orzo to the pan and toast them for a couple of minutes, stirring frequently.

Step 4: Deglaze and Simmer

I pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Then, I stir in the Dijon mustard (if using), fresh thyme, and vegetable stock. I bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken and Orzo

I return the chicken breasts to the pan, cover it, and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked through and the chicken is cooked through. I stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Step 6: Finish the Dish

I remove the chicken breasts from the pan and thinly slice them. Then, I stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, spinach, basil, and lemon juice. I taste the sauce and add more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve

I return the sliced chicken to the pan and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Tips and Tricks

• Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Cook the orzo until it’s al dente, or slightly firm to the bite.
• Fresh Herbs: I love using fresh herbs for this recipe, but you can substitute with dried herbs if needed.
• Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed.

How to Serve

I love serving this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo with:

• Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a refreshing complement to this dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can cook the chicken and orzo ahead of time and then reheat them with the sauce before serving.
• Storing: Store leftover orzo in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the orzo on the stovetop with a little extra broth or cream to add moisture.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use other small pasta shapes, like ditalini or small shells.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the chicken and add more vegetables, like mushrooms or zucchini.

3. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?
Yes, you can use dried herbs, but fresh herbs have a brighter flavor.

There you have it! A delicious and easy recipe for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo. I hope you enjoy it!

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