Name: Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast tenderloins; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; ¼ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp olive oil (additional); 5 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1 cup orzo, uncooked; 2 cups chicken stock; ¼ tsp salt; 4 oz fresh spinach; ½ cup heavy cream; 1 tbsp dried basil; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes; 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pan Convenience: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in a single skillet.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, ideal for busy schedules.
Flavor-Packed: Sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning infuse the dish with rich, savory flavors.
High-Protein: With 40g of protein per serving, it’s a nutritious choice.
Versatile: Easily adaptable with different proteins or vegetables to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb chicken breast tenderloins
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp Italian seasoning
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil (additional)
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 cup orzo, uncooked
2 cups chicken stock
¼ tsp salt (additional)
4 oz fresh spinach
½ cup heavy cream
1 tbsp dried basil
¼ tsp red pepper flakes
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season the chicken tenderloins with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Sear the chicken for 3 minutes on each side until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics and Orzo: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and uncooked orzo. Stir and cook for about 2 minutes to toast the orzo slightly.
Add Stock and Cook Orzo: Pour in the chicken stock and add ¼ teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let the orzo cook for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Incorporate Spinach and Cream: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and stir until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream, add dried basil and red pepper flakes, and mix well.
Combine Chicken and Finish Cooking: Return the seared chicken to the skillet. Cover and let it simmer for 2-5 minutes until the chicken is heated through and fully cooked.
Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Protein Alternatives: Substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or tempeh for different protein options.
Vegetable Add-ins: Enhance the dish with mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
Grain Substitutes: Use quinoa or couscous instead of orzo for a different texture.
Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative.
Spice Level: Adjust red pepper flakes to control the heat according to your preference.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of tenderloins?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. Adjust cooking time as needed to ensure they are fully cooked.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely. Omit the chicken and use vegetable stock. Add more vegetables or plant-based protein sources like tofu.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half, evaporated milk, or plant-based creams like coconut or cashew cream are suitable substitutes.

How do I prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan?

Stir the orzo occasionally while cooking and ensure there’s enough liquid in the pan.

Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Yes, Parmesan cheese adds a nice touch. You can also experiment with other cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino Romano.

What sides pair well with this dish?

A fresh green salad or crusty bread complements the creamy texture of the orzo.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s great for preparing meals in advance and storing for later use.

Can I use dried spinach instead of fresh?

Fresh spinach is recommended for the best texture, but frozen spinach can be used if thawed and drained properly.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to elevate the heat.

Conclusion

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo is a delightful and versatile dish that brings together rich flavors and comforting textures. Its quick preparation and one-pan convenience make it a perfect choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your dietary preferences and enjoy a satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.