Effortless & Delicious: Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo – A One-Pan Delight! (Print Version)
How to make creamy Tuscan chicken orzo with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach in one pan that your family will love.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20-25 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Italian
Dietary: Omnivore
# Ingredients:
→ Base & Protein
01 -
1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
02 -
1 tablespoon olive oil
03 -
1 ½ cups orzo pasta
04 -
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
05 -
1 cup heavy cream
06 -
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Tuscan Flavors
07 -
½ cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
08 -
5 ounces fresh spinach
09 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
10 -
1 large shallot, minced
→ Seasonings
11 -
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
12 -
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
13 -
¼ teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
→ Finishing Touches
14 -
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
15 -
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
# Instructions:
01 -
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Sear chicken thighs for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown; don't cook through. Remove chicken to a plate. This begins our Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo.
02 -
Add shallot and garlic to the pan, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning. This builds the flavorful foundation for your delicious Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo.
03 -
Stir in the orzo pasta, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Ensure all ingredients are well combined before the next step.
04 -
Return the seared chicken to the pan. Cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, until orzo is tender and chicken cooked through for this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo. Liquid should be mostly absorbed.
05 -
Remove from heat. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and fresh spinach. Gently fold the spinach until it wilts into the creamy sauce. This creates the rich texture for your one-pan dish.
06 -
Garnish your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo – One-Pan with fresh chopped basil and optional red pepper flakes. Serve immediately and savor this comforting, satisfying meal with your loved ones.
# Notes:
01 -
Prevent mushy orzo by not over-simmering; cook until just tender.
02 -
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
03 -
Substitute chicken breast for thighs, but sear carefully to prevent dryness; thighs add richer flavor.
04 -
Serve hot, garnished with basil, and pair with a crisp green salad or crusty bread.
05 -
Prep ahead by searing chicken and chopping aromatics a day in advance to save time.
06 -
Toast orzo briefly in the pan for nutty depth, building a richer flavor foundation.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
large pan or skillet
02 -
lid
03 -
measuring cups
04 -
measuring spoons
05 -
cutting board
06 -
sharp knife
07 -
plate
08 -
spatula
09 -
grater (optional)
10 -
airtight container
11 -
serving spoon
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 550
Total Fat: 30g
Total Carbohydrate: 41g
Protein: 30g