One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo (Print)

Creamy orzo with chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach creates a cozy, flavorful Italian-inspired main dish.

# Ingredients:

→ Poultry

01 - 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
02 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
03 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
04 - 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs

→ Vegetables and Aromatics

05 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
06 - 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
07 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
08 - 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and sliced
09 - 2 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped

→ Pasta and Liquid

10 - 1 cup orzo pasta
11 - 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
12 - 1/2 cup heavy cream

→ Cheese and Seasonings

13 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
14 - 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
15 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
16 - Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and mostly cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove to a plate and set aside.
03 - In the same pot, add the onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
04 - Add the sun-dried tomatoes and orzo, stirring to coat the orzo in the oil and aromatics.
05 - Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, for 7-9 minutes, until the orzo is nearly tender.
06 - Return the chicken to the pot along with any juices. Add the heavy cream and spinach. Continue to cook, stirring, until the chicken is cooked through, the orzo is creamy, and the spinach is wilted, about 3-5 minutes.
07 - Stir in the Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using). Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

# Pro Tips:

01 -
  • Ready in just 45 minutes from start to finish
  • Uses simple ingredients you likely have on hand
  • Everything cooks in one pot for minimal cleanup
  • Creamy and comforting without being too heavy
  • Perfect balance of protein carbs and vegetables
02 -
  • This dish is perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day
  • The orzo will continue to absorb liquid as it sits so you may need to add a splash of broth when reheating
  • Each serving provides a complete balanced meal with protein carbs and vegetables
  • Can be easily doubled for larger families or gatherings
  • The entire meal comes together in just one pot meaning less cleanup
03 -
  • Always cook the orzo until just al dente as it will continue cooking when you add back the chicken and cream. This prevents mushy pasta in your final dish.
  • Reserve some of the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes and use it in place of regular olive oil for an extra flavor boost.
  • For the creamiest result grate your own Parmesan cheese rather than using pre-grated which often contains anti-caking agents that prevent proper melting.

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