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Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo for Cozy Nights

Dive into this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo—a comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 lb Chicken Breast Tenderloins Substitute with shrimp or tofu if desired
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Can swap with avocado oil
  • 1 tsp Paprika Consider chipotle or cayenne for spice
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper
For the Flavor Base
  • 3 cloves Garlic, Minced Pre-minced garlic can save time
  • 1 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Chopped Can swap with fresh tomatoes
  • 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning Essential for flavor
For the Orzo and Sauce
  • 1 cup Orzo, Uncooked Replace with quinoa or couscous if preferred
  • 2 cups Chicken Stock Use vegetable stock for plant-based version
  • 2 cups Fresh Spinach Can use Swiss chard or kale
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Use half-and-half or coconut cream for lighter options
  • 1 tsp Dried Basil Fresh basil can elevate the taste
  • 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes Omit for milder flavor
For the Finishing Touch
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Alternatives include Pecorino Romano or Asiago

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Sear chicken tenderloins seasoned with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper for about 3 minutes on each side.
  3. In the same skillet, add olive oil, minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and uncooked orzo. Stir for about 2 minutes.
  4. Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a boil, scraping the bottom of the skillet.
  5. Once boiling, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Stir in fresh spinach and allow to wilt for 2-3 minutes.
  7. Add heavy cream, dried basil, and red pepper flakes, mixing until well combined.
  8. Return seared chicken to the skillet, cover, and simmer for an additional 2-5 minutes.
  9. Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For a complete meal, pair with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. Ideal for leftovers too.

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