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Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo

Deliciously Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo is a one-pot meal that combines tender chicken, orzo pasta, and a creamy sauce infused with garlic and spinach.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Breasts Substitute turkey breast or shrimp for a leaner option.
For the Seasoning
  • to taste Salt Enhances flavor.
  • to taste Black Pepper Use freshly ground for best flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Can substitute with dried basil, oregano, and thyme.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika can enhance the smoky flavor.
For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can substitute with another oil (e.g., avocado oil).
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Use a dairy-free alternative if desired.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Fresh is preferred.
For the Flavor
  • ½ cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes Substitute with roasted red pepper for a different flavor.
  • to taste Red Pepper Flakes Omit for a milder dish.
For the Pasta
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Whole wheat or gluten-free orzo can be used.
For Cooking Liquid
  • 4 cups Chicken Broth Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
  • ½ cup Heavy Cream Substitute with half-and-half or Greek yogurt for lower fat.
For Final Touches
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese Use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
  • 3 cups Spinach Substitute with kale for a heartier texture.
  • to taste Basil or Parsley Fresh is best, but dried can be used.

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season 1 pound of chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning, then carefully place them in the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
  2. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in ½ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes and a pinch of red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional minute.
  3. Add 1 cup of orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the aromatic mixture. Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet, allowing it to cook for approximately 10 minutes.
  4. Once the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the broth, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream and the reserved chicken. Simmer uncovered for 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
  5. Fold in 3 cups of fresh spinach until wilted, then sprinkle in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
  6. Dish out the Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo into bowls, garnishing with freshly chopped basil or parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

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