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