Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo Skillet (Print)

Chicken and orzo simmered in creamy Tuscan sauce with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. One-pot, easy, and flavorful.

# Components:

→ Chicken Preparation

01 - 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 2 pounds), cut into bite-sized pieces
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
04 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - Salt, to taste
06 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Skillet Base

07 - 1 medium onion, diced
08 - 4 cloves garlic, minced
09 - 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
10 - 3 cups chicken broth
11 - 1 cup heavy cream
12 - 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
13 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
14 - 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
15 - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

→ Finishing Touches

16 - 3 cups fresh baby spinach
17 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
18 - 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
19 - Lemon wedges, for serving

# Directions:

01 - Season chicken pieces with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden and cooked through, 6 to 8 minutes. Transfer chicken to a plate.
02 - In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook for 4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
03 - Add orzo to the skillet, stirring to coat in the aromatics for 1 minute. Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
04 - Simmer uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring frequently, until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed. The mixture should remain creamy but not dry.
05 - Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add fresh spinach and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and chicken is heated through.
06 - Remove from heat. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses just one pan for easy cleanup
  • Ready in about half an hour
  • Packed with fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes for Mediterranean flavors
  • Creamy and satisfying without being heavy
  • Great for meal prep since it reheats beautifully
02 -
  • High in protein and calcium
  • This meal is excellent for family-style sharing
  • Flexible for gluten-free diets with a simple pasta swap
  • Freezes surprisingly well for future quick meals
03 -
  • Always toast your orzo briefly in the pan before adding liquids that step deepens the flavor
  • Sear the chicken thoroughly for golden edges this locks in juices
  • Freshly grated parmesan melts best and gives the sauce a nutty finish

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