Description
This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo is a rich, one-skillet dinner featuring tender chicken, savory sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and creamy orzo. Packed with protein and bold Italian-inspired flavors, it’s the perfect quick and comforting meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
1 lb chicken breast tenderloins
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp Italian seasoning
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
For the Orzo Skillet:
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
Instructions
-
Sear Chicken: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet. Season chicken with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook 3 minutes per side. Remove from skillet.
-
Sauté Aromatics & Orzo: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil. Cook garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and orzo for 2 minutes.
-
Simmer Orzo: Add chicken stock and salt. Bring to a boil, then simmer on low, covered, for 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
-
Add Spinach & Cream: Stir in spinach until wilted. Add cream, basil, and red pepper flakes.
-
Finish Cooking: Return chicken to skillet. Cover and simmer 2–5 minutes until heated through.
-
Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with Parmesan, and serve warm.
Notes
Use coconut cream or plant-based cream for a dairy-free version.
Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for variety.
Stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking.
Add more veggies like mushrooms or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pan, Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
