Creamy Sundried Tomato Chicken Orzo
Table of Contents
- Recipe Introduction
- One-Pan Wonder: Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo
- The Magic Ingredients
- Ingredients & Equipment: Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo Edition
- Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo: Your New Weeknight Hero
- Recipe Notes to Elevate Your Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo Game
- Frequently Asked Questions
- 📝 Recipe Card
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a hug in a bowl? Honestly, this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo is just that! We are talking Italian vibes that will have you feel like you've got that perfect Tuscan chicken orzo recipe .
Brief Overview
This amazing dish originates from the heart of Italian cooking. It’s easier than falling off a log and takes about 35 minutes from start to finish. This recipe makes four good servings.
Main Benefits
It is packed full of protein, but the best thing? It is comfort food, elevated. This One-pan chicken orzo recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight chicken dinner .
One-Pan Wonder: Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo
Ever wondered what's for tea? I have the answer!
Alright, let's whip up a tasty batch of SEO for this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo. This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo is a simple dinner solution.
Picture tender chicken nestled amongst creamy orzo and punchy sun-dried tomatoes. It's ready in a flash.
Let's get real, sometimes you just need a quick fix. We are talking about a weeknight meal, not an all-day cooking affair. This dish will satisfy the fussiest eater.
This isn't just about speed, though. The sun-dried tomatoes are a real game changer. They add a sweet and tangy flavour.
The creamy sauce and Chicken orzo with parmesan takes it to the next level. Honestly, it's heavenly.
The Magic Ingredients
For this one-pan delight, you'll need a few bits and bobs. First, grab some boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Season them with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
You'll also need sun-dried tomatoes. These add that signature Italian touch. Don’t forget garlic, orzo pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese.
A handful of spinach adds a pop of color and nutrients. Italian seasoning and fresh basil are the final flourish.
Ingredients & Equipment: Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo Edition
Alright, let's whip up a tasty batch of ingredients. This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo is all about simple, fresh flavours.
Think of it as a one-pan hug! Honestly, nothing beats it after a long day.
Main Ingredients Deets
Here's what you'll need, with measurements for both sides of the pond:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Look for chicken that's pink and plump. Avoid anything that looks pale or feels slimy.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil.
For the Orzo:
- 2 tablespoons oil from the sun-dried tomato jar.
- ½ cup (75g) sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed). The oil-packed ones are way better, trust me.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced.
- 1 cup (200g) uncooked orzo pasta.
- 2 ¼ cups (530ml) chicken broth. Good quality broth makes all the difference.
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream. This is what makes it creamy .
- ⅓ cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish. Freshly grated is the way to go!
- 1 cup (30g) baby spinach.
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
Seasoning: A Little Italian Kiss
This recipe is all about that sun-dried tomato tang. Italian seasoning adds warmth, but don't be afraid to experiment. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick! If you're missing Italian seasoning, try a mix of oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme.
Equipment: Keep It Simple, Sunshine
You only need a few essentials for this One-pan chicken orzo recipe :
- A large skillet (12 inch) with a lid.
- A decent knife.
- A cutting board.
- Measuring cups and spoons.
Don't have a skillet with a lid? No worries! A baking sheet will do the trick. Just keep an eye on the Sun-dried tomato orzo so it doesn't dry out! You know I like to use the pan to save time, especially for a Quick weeknight chicken dinner .
We all know weeknights are mental! This Creamy chicken pasta dish is so easy, it's practically foolproof.
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo: Your New Weeknight Hero
Alright, let's whip up a tasty batch of Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo . Honestly, this one-pan chicken orzo recipe will become a regular on your dinner table.
It’s Italian comfort food at its finest. The best part? Minimal washing up. Who doesn't love that? This is a Creamy chicken pasta dish that's ready in under 40 minutes.
Prep Steps: Mise en Place Magic
Essential mise en place is key. Chop your sun-dried tomatoes , mince the garlic, and measure out the orzo. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Honestly, getting everything ready beforehand saves so much time. This really makes the process super easy. Trust me on this.
It is essential mise en place.
step-by-step to Creamy Perfection
- Season 1 lb (450g) chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Sear it in olive oil until golden and cooked to 165° F ( 74° C) .
- Set aside the chicken, letting it rest, and reserve the pan.
- Sauté ½ cup (75g) sun-dried tomatoes and 3 minced garlic cloves. Do this in the tomato oil from the jar, until fragrant.
- Toast 1 cup (200g) orzo for about 2 minutes. Toast in the same skillet until lightly golden.
- Simmer the orzo with 2 ¼ cups (530ml) chicken broth, covered, until tender.
- Stir in ½ cup (120ml) cream, ⅓ cup (30g) Parmesan, 1 cup (30g) spinach, and Italian seasoning.
- Serve sliced chicken over the orzo and garnish with basil.
Pro Tips for a Show Stopping Orzo
Don't overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken. It’s a classic mistake! Sear in batches, for better browning. For a Quick weeknight chicken dinner , use good quality chicken broth, the better the ingredients the better the end results.
Taste as you go and adjust seasoning to your preference. Parmesan cheese can really elevate the dish. If you are a vegetarian, skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
Try to make this Tuscan chicken orzo recipe your own!
There you have it. This Italian chicken and orzo skillet is perfect when you need something comforting and delicious. It's a great Comfort food chicken orzo dish.
So, go on, give it a whirl!
Recipe Notes to Elevate Your Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo Game
Alright, let's whip up a tasty batch! Honestly, this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo is so easy, you'll be making it every week.
Plating Like a Pro and Serving Suggestions
First impressions count, right? Try arranging the sliced chicken artfully over the sun-dried tomato orzo . A sprinkle of fresh basil and extra Parmesan? Chef's kiss! For sides, a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette will cut through the richness.
A crisp Pinot Grigio would also be a cracking pairing. If you're feeling fancy, try a drizzle of pesto over the finished dish.
One-pan chicken orzo recipe never looked so good.
Storing Your Leftovers (if there are any!)
Pop any leftover Creamy chicken pasta dish in an airtight container. It'll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
For reheating, a gentle warm-up in the microwave or on the hob with a splash of water or chicken broth works a treat.
Freezing isn't ideal due to the cream, but if you must, portion it out before freezing. Reheat thoroughly. Remember food safety: it is critical to ensure internal temp is over 165° F ( 74° C) .
Variations: A Little Twist for Every Taste
Fancy a kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while the orzo simmers. Going veggie? Skip the chicken and throw in some sautéed mushrooms or courgettes.
For a lighter version, use half and-half instead of heavy cream. Thinking of a seasonal ingredient swap? Why not adding fresh spinach during autumn time!.
You can also substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano cheese.
Nutrition Breakdown (Quick and Dirty)
Okay, so comfort food chicken orzo might not be a salad, but it’s still got some good stuff. We're talking protein from the chicken, carbs for energy from the orzo pasta recipes , and some healthy fats from the sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan.
You're looking at roughly 550-650 calories per serving . Plus, did you know that sun-dried tomatoes are packed with antioxidants? That is a great bonus, isn't it?.
Alright, that’s the lowdown! This Tuscan chicken orzo recipe is seriously banging. Have a go and let me know what you think. You've got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this Creamy sun-dried tomato chicken orzo recipe really as easy as it sounds? I'm not exactly Mary Berry in the kitchen!
Absolutely! This recipe is designed for ease, even if your culinary skills are more "beans on toast" than "Michelin star". The beauty of this Creamy sun-dried tomato chicken orzo is that it's all done in one pan, minimizing both fuss and washing up.
Follow the steps and you'll have a delicious, impressive meal without a kitchen meltdown.
Can I make Creamy sun-dried tomato chicken orzo ahead of time?
While best enjoyed fresh, you can definitely prep some components in advance. You can sear the chicken and chop the sun-dried tomatoes beforehand and store separately. However, the orzo itself is best cooked right before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water if needed.
What are some good substitutions for ingredients in the Creamy sun-dried tomato chicken orzo if I don't have them on hand?
No problem, substitutions are easy! If you don't have heavy cream, half and-half will work, though it will result in a slightly less rich sauce. For chicken broth, vegetable broth is a fine substitute, and you can substitute Pecorino Romano if you don't have Parmesan cheese.
If you don't have orzo, try using small shell pasta (conchiglie), but keep an eye on the cooking time.
How should I store leftover Creamy sun-dried tomato chicken orzo?
Store any leftover Creamy sun-dried tomato chicken orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The orzo will absorb some of the sauce as it sits, so you might need to add a splash of broth or water when reheating to restore the creamy consistency.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Any tips for making this Creamy sun-dried tomato chicken orzo healthier?
You can definitely lighten this dish up! Use chicken thighs to add more flavor and reduce chicken breast dryness or for an even lighter version you can substitute the chicken with lean turkey breast.
To reduce the fat content, you can use half and-half instead of heavy cream, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt for added protein and tang. Load up on the veggies by adding extra spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
Can I add any other veggies to this Creamy sun-dried tomato chicken orzo recipe?
Absolutely! This dish is very versatile, so don't be shy about adding your favorite vegetables. Sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus all work well. You could even stir in some frozen peas or broccoli florets during the last few minutes of cooking.
Just make sure they're cooked through but still have a bit of a bite.
Creamy Sundried Tomato Chicken Orzo
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 550-650 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25-35g |