Description
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo Skillet is a comforting one-pan meal featuring tender chicken, creamy parmesan sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta infused with rich Italian flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the orzo pasta and toast lightly for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender.
- Stir in heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Add spinach and cook until wilted.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well.
- Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
- You can substitute kale for spinach if desired.
- Add extra broth if the orzo absorbs too much liquid.
- This dish is best served immediately while creamy.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian-American