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- 1 pound chicken breast, diced - 1 cup orzo pasta - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 onion, finely chopped - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 cup spinach leaves - 1 cup heavy cream - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh basil leaves for garnish Gathering the right ingredients is key to making creamy Tuscan chicken orzo. You want fresh, high-quality items for the best taste. The chicken breast serves as the main protein. I like to dice it to ensure even cooking. The orzo pasta adds a lovely texture. It absorbs the cream sauce well, enhancing the dish. Using olive oil gives a rich flavor and helps cook the chicken. Don't skip the onion and garlic. They build a strong flavor base. The cherry tomatoes add a sweet burst. The spinach leaves bring color and nutrition. The heavy cream makes the dish creamy and luxurious. I always use grated Parmesan cheese for that nutty, salty touch. Italian seasoning ties all the flavors together. Lastly, season with salt and pepper to taste. Fresh basil leaves on top make it look stunning and fresh. - Large skillet - Measuring cups and spoons - Cutting board and knife - Wooden spoon You'll need a few tools to prepare this dish. A large skillet is essential for cooking everything evenly. Make sure you have measuring cups and spoons for accuracy. A cutting board and knife are necessary for chopping the chicken and veggies. A wooden spoon helps stir without scratching your pan. With these tools, you're set to create this delightful meal! {{ingredient_image_1}} First, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet. Add 1 pound of diced chicken breast. Cook it for about 6-8 minutes. It should turn golden brown and be cooked through. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper for flavor. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Next, in the same skillet, add 1 finely chopped onion. Sauté it until it becomes translucent, which takes about 5 minutes. Then, add 3 cloves of minced garlic. Cook for an additional minute to let the garlic release its aroma. Now, stir in 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Cook this mixture until the tomatoes start to soften, about 3-4 minutes. After that, add 1 cup of orzo pasta. Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes. The orzo should be tender, and most of the liquid should be absorbed. Once the orzo is cooked, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup of spinach leaves. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Mix everything until the spinach wilts and everything blends well. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Finally, let the dish sit for a few minutes to thicken before serving. - Ensure chicken is cooked thoroughly. It should be golden brown inside. - Monitor the orzo to avoid overcooking. Check for tenderness after 10 minutes. - Add more herbs like thyme or oregano for fresh flavors. - Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition. - Serve creamy Tuscan chicken orzo in shallow bowls for a nice look. - Pair with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. - Enjoy with a glass of white wine for a lovely dinner. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and ripe cherry tomatoes enhance the dish's flavor and nutritional value, making it even more delicious. Perfectly Cook the Orzo: Keep an eye on the orzo while it cooks to achieve the perfect al dente texture; overcooking can make it mushy. Add Extra Flavor: For an additional flavor boost, consider deglazing the skillet with a splash of white wine after sautéing the onions and garlic. Customize Your Protein: Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or a plant-based protein for a different twist that caters to your dietary preferences. {{image_2}} You can easily make creamy Tuscan chicken orzo vegetarian. Just swap the chicken for mushrooms or tofu. Both options add great flavor and texture. Use portobello or shiitake mushrooms for a meaty bite. If you prefer tofu, try extra-firm and marinate it for added taste. This change keeps the dish rich and satisfying without meat. If you need a gluten-free version, choose gluten-free pasta. There are many types available, like brown rice or chickpea pasta. These options work well in this recipe. Just cook them according to the package instructions. This way, you get the creamy texture and flavors without gluten. You can adjust the flavor of creamy Tuscan chicken orzo by changing the seasonings. Try adding smoked paprika for a hint of smoke. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds heat, while lemon zest brings brightness. For a fresh twist, mix in fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Each change creates a new taste experience. To store leftovers, let the creamy Tuscan chicken orzo cool down first. Place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Always label the container with the date. This way, you can track how long it has been stored. For freezing, use a freezer-safe container. You can also use freezer bags, but make sure to remove excess air. The orzo can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, move it to the fridge overnight to thaw. You can also thaw it in the microwave on low power if you're in a hurry. To reheat, the best method is using the stovetop. Place the orzo in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to help it heat evenly. Stir often until it’s warmed through. If you prefer the microwave, use a microwave-safe dish. Cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot. Enjoy your creamy Tuscan chicken orzo just like the first time! It takes about 30 minutes to make creamy Tuscan chicken orzo. You will need 15 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook. This dish cooks quickly, making it great for busy nights. Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you are ready to eat, reheat it on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of broth or cream to bring back the creaminess. You can use half-and-half, milk, or a non-dairy milk for a lighter version. Greek yogurt also works well for a tangy touch. Just remember to adjust the amount for the right texture. Absolutely! If you don't have orzo, try using small shells or any pasta you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta options are also great if you want something different. You have learned how to make creamy Tuscan chicken orzo. We covered the key ingredients, tools, and steps. Cooking tips helped avoid common mistakes. Flavor variations and alternative options offer more choices. Lastly, storage and reheating advice ensure great leftovers. Enjoy your dish and impress your friends and family. Cooking should be fun, simple, and tasty!

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo

A delicious and creamy dish featuring chicken, orzo pasta, and fresh vegetables, perfect for a comforting meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound chicken breast, diced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 unit onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup spinach leaves
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • to taste unit Salt and pepper
  • for garnish unit Fresh basil leaves

Instructions
 

  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  • Stir in the cherry tomatoes and Italian seasoning, cooking until the tomatoes begin to soften, approximately 3-4 minutes.
  • Add the orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring to combine. Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth (or water) and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 10-12 minutes or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  • Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, spinach leaves, and the cooked chicken. Mix until the spinach is wilted and everything is well combined. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if necessary.
  • Remove from heat and let sit for a couple of minutes to thicken.

Notes

Serve in shallow bowls, garnished with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese.
Keyword chicken, creamy, orzo, pasta, Tuscan