Description
This creamy orzo dish is a comforting blend of chicken, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. I always take a moment here to really coat the chicken well—this simple step builds the foundation of flavor.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the chicken in the pan and let it sear until golden on both sides. There’s something so satisfying about that sizzling sound—it signals the start of something good. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- In the same pan, add minced garlic and let it cook just until fragrant. Stir in the orzo, letting it toast slightly for a minute or two. This step gives the pasta a subtle nutty flavor that makes the dish feel more layered.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to keep the orzo from sticking. As it cooks, it absorbs all those rich flavors.
- Once the orzo is nearly tender, stir in the cream, Parmesan, oregano, chili flakes, and sun-dried tomatoes. The sauce begins to turn silky and rich at this stage, and the aroma becomes irresistible.
- Add the spinach and let it wilt into the sauce. Return the chicken to the pan, nestling it into the orzo. Let everything simmer together until the chicken is fully cooked and the flavors meld beautifully.
- Finish with fresh basil before serving. This final touch adds brightness and a fresh contrast to the creamy base.
Notes
- This dish is versatile—feel free to add other vegetables like peas or bell peppers for extra flavor.
- For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Pair with a light salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg