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Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo


  • Author: Luna
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Orzo and Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
  • 1½ cups orzo pasta
  • 2½ cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For Garnishing:

  • Fresh basil or parsley (chopped)
  • Extra parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
  3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
  4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

  1. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes, sautéing for another minute.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

  1. Add the orzo to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the butter and aromatics.
  2. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
  3. Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet, letting the orzo cook for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

  1. Once the orzo is tender, pour in the heavy cream and stir well.
  2. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and let everything simmer together for 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Add Spinach and Cheese

  1. Stir in the chopped spinach and let it wilt into the sauce.
  2. Add the grated parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce is thick and creamy.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
  2. Sprinkle extra parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish.
  3. Serve immediately and enjoy this creamy, flavorful Tuscan-inspired dish!
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: 620
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Fat: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 58g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 38g