Description

How to make creamy Tuscan chicken orzo with tender chicken, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes in one pan that makes weeknight dinners incredibly easy.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Components:
1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1.5 cups uncooked orzo pasta
1 cup heavy cream
3 cups chicken broth, low sodium
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil, drained and chopped
5 ounces (about 5 cups packed) fresh baby spinach
Flavor Builders:
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 small yellow onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
Seasonings:
1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
Finishing Touches:
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

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Instructions

Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Sear chicken pieces until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t overcrowd; cook in batches for best caramelization.
Sauté Aromatics: To the same pan, add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for another minute until fragrant. This builds a crucial flavorful base.
Add Orzo: Stir in uncooked orzo, chicken broth, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the pan bottom. This ensures all flavors emulsify beautifully.
Simmer Pasta: Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until orzo is al dente and most liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This is key for our Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo – One-Pan.
Stir Cream: Remove the lid and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until well combined. Add fresh baby spinach, cooking until it wilts into the creamy sauce. This creates the signature richness of this dish.
Finish Dish: Return the seared chicken to the pan. Stir everything gently, ensuring the chicken is coated in the luxurious sauce. Taste and adjust salt and pepper; your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo – One-Pan is almost ready!
Garnish & Serve: Ladle generous portions of your delicious Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo – One-Pan into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately for a comforting, satisfying meal.

Notes

Stir orzo frequently while simmering to prevent sticking and mushiness. Always use full-fat heavy cream for signature richness.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream.

Substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for breasts for added flavor and moisture. Gluten-free orzo is also an easy swap.

Serve hot immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and Parmesan. A simple side salad pairs wonderfully.

Chop chicken and dice onion up to a day in advance for easier meal prep. Store components separately.

**Allergy Information:** Dairy, Gluten