Description
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo is a 30-minute, high-protein, one-pan meal that’s packed with bold flavors and comforting textures. Juicy seasoned chicken is simmered in a creamy garlic and sun-dried tomato sauce with tender orzo and wilted spinach for the perfect weeknight dinner.
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 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Sear chicken for 3 minutes on each side until golden, then remove from skillet.
4. In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil, then stir in garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and orzo.
5. Toast orzo for 2 minutes while stirring.
6. Pour in chicken stock and ¼ tsp salt, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover.
7. Cook for 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender.
8. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.
9. Add heavy cream, dried basil, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.
10. Return chicken to the pan and simmer for 2–5 minutes until heated through.
11. Remove from heat and top with grated parmesan before serving.
Notes
Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for the best flavor.
Sub gluten-free orzo for a gluten-free version.
Coconut cream works as a dairy-free substitute for heavy cream.
Stir the orzo often to prevent it from sticking.
This dish reheats beautifully—great for meal prep.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (13 oz)
- Calories: 618
- Sugar: 9.4g
- Sodium: 608mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 9.9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14.9g
- Trans Fat: 0.4g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 4.6g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 122mg