Creamy Chicken Orzo
Hola! If you’ve ever wondered what happens when a Florida girl falls head over heels for the cozy flavors of Italy, you’re about to find out. This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo is one of those dishes that feels like a hug in a bowl.
It’s creamy, flavorful, and ready in just 30 minutes. The tender chicken, creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach come together in one pan, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
Inspired by the heart of Italian-American comfort cooking, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor without the fuss. Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding family, or cooking for yourself, this one-pan wonder will quickly become your new favorite dinner.
Quick Recipe Overview
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
| Servings | 4 bowls |
| Course | Dinner |
| Cuisine | Italian-American |
| Method | Stovetop |
| Diet | Gluten Free |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Magic: Cook everything in one skillet for easy cleanup and maximum flavor. * Ready in 30 Minutes: A quick, comforting meal made simple. * Rich and Creamy: The sauce clings beautifully to the orzo and chicken, creating a cozy bite every time. * Perfectly Balanced: The tangy sun-dried tomatoes pair beautifully with creamy garlic and parmesan. * Versatile and Healthy: Add veggies, switch the cream, or go gluten-free — this recipe adapts to your needs.
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 bowls 1x
Description
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo is a 30-minute, high-protein, one-pan meal featuring tender chicken simmered in a creamy garlic sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and orzo. It is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast tenderloins
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup orzo, uncooked
- 2 cups chicken stock
- ¼ tsp salt
- 4 oz fresh spinach
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp dried basil
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp grated parmesan
Instructions
1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear for 3 minutes per side until golden, then remove from the skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and orzo. Toast the orzo for 2 minutes while stirring.
4. Pour in chicken stock and ¼ teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover.
5. Cook for 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
6. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.
7. Add heavy cream, dried basil, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to create a creamy sauce.
8. Return chicken to the pan and simmer for 2–5 minutes until heated through.
9. Remove from heat, sprinkle grated parmesan on top, and serve immediately.
Notes
Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for the richest flavor.
Substitute gluten-free orzo for a gluten-free version.
Coconut cream can replace heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative.
Stir the orzo frequently to prevent it from sticking.
This dish reheats beautifully, making it a great meal prep choice.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, One-Pan Meals, Weeknight Recipes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (13 oz)
- Calories: 618
- Sodium: 608mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 9.9g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 122mg
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast tenderloins
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (extra for sautéing)
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup orzo, uncooked
- 2 cups chicken stock
- ¼ tsp salt
- 4 oz fresh spinach
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp dried basil
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp grated parmesan
Ingredient Tips Table
| Ingredient | Tip |
|---|---|
| Chicken | Use tenderloins for juicy texture and fast cooking. |
| Sun-Dried Tomatoes | Oil-packed varieties bring extra richness and depth. |
| Orzo | Stir often to prevent it from sticking to the pan. |
| Spinach | Add at the end to keep its bright color and nutrients. |
| Heavy Cream | Substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free version. |
| Parmesan | Freshly grated melts perfectly for a smooth finish. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear for 3 minutes per side until golden, then remove and set aside.
Build the Base: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil, then stir in garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and orzo. Toast the orzo for 2 minutes to develop flavor.
Cook the Orzo: Pour in chicken stock and ¼ tsp salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to medium heat, cover, and cook for 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally until orzo is tender.
Add the Greens: Stir in spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.
Make It Creamy: Add heavy cream, dried basil, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to form a velvety sauce.
Finish the Dish: Return chicken to the pan and simmer for 2–5 minutes until heated through and coated with sauce.
Serve: Remove from heat, top with grated parmesan, and serve immediately.
Helpful Tips
- Use a nonstick skillet to prevent sticking when cooking orzo.
- Stir the orzo regularly to maintain a creamy consistency.
- Don’t overcook the spinach; just wilt it lightly for best color and taste.
- For extra richness, add a spoonful of cream cheese to the sauce.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Choose the Right Chicken: Chicken tenderloins or thin-cut breasts cook evenly and stay juicy.
- Let the Chicken Rest: After searing, rest it for a few minutes before adding back to the sauce.
- Balance the Creaminess: Adjust the sauce thickness with a splash of chicken stock or cream.
- Use Quality Parmesan: It enhances flavor and creates a silky, luxurious finish.
Recipe Variations
- Add Veggies: Mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini work beautifully.
- Make It Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
- Cheese Swap: Try goat cheese or feta instead of parmesan for a tangy twist.
- Go Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut cream for a light, creamy result.
If you enjoy cozy one-pan dinners like this, you’ll love my Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet with Broccoli. It’s another quick, creamy, and flavor-packed meal that makes busy weeknights so much easier while keeping dinner wholesome and satisfying.
Make Ahead & Freezer Tips
This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or cream to restore the texture. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months, but for best results, thaw overnight and warm gently on the stovetop.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy orzo with a slice of garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted asparagus. It also pairs perfectly with a glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio for a balanced dinner experience.
Pairing Ideas
Pair with: Roasted Brussels sprouts, garlic knots, or a Caprese salad. Drink with: White wine, sparkling water with lemon, or light herbal tea.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a bit of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving too long to prevent drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different protein? Yes, shrimp or sausage works wonderfully in this recipe.
Can I make it vegetarian? Absolutely, replace the chicken with white beans or mushrooms.
Is orzo gluten-free? Regular orzo is not, but gluten-free versions are available.
Can I make this dairy-free? Substitute coconut cream and skip the parmesan.
Can I freeze this dish? Yes, freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.
How can I make it lighter? Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce cheese slightly.
Nutrition Info
| Serving Size | 1 bowl (13 oz) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 618 kcal |
| Protein | 40g |
| Carbohydrates | 54g |
| Fat | 27g |
| Saturated Fat | 9.9g |
| Fiber | 4.6g |
| Sugar | 9.4g |
| Cholesterol | 122mg |
| Sodium | 608mg |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Author’s Note
Hola, friends! As a Florida girl with a heart rooted in the flavors of Mexico and Italy, this recipe was born from my love of creamy pasta nights with a twist. I wanted something fast, flavorful, and comforting for my family. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and orzo instantly became a household favorite. I hope this recipe brings that same warmth to your table too.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo is the perfect balance of cozy and elegant, ideal for weeknights or special dinners. It’s creamy, rich, and bursting with Mediterranean-inspired flavor. If you love one-pan meals, try my Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet with Broccoli next — it’s another quick, flavor-packed favorite your family will adore.
