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Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo in 30 Minutes Flat

Enjoy a delightful Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo, a high-protein meal ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 540

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken and Orzo
  • 1 pound Chicken Breast Tenderloins can swap with boneless thighs for added juiciness
  • 1 cup Orzo (Uncooked) can substitute with small shapes like ditalini
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil use vegetable oil if needed
  • 3 cloves Garlic (Minced) fresh garlic ensures the best flavor
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream can use half-and-half to lighten it up
  • 3 cups Chicken Stock homemade stock is best for flavor
For Flavoring
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika smoked paprika can enhance flavor depth
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning substitute with dried oregano and basil if desired
  • 1 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes (Chopped) consider oil-packed for extra flavor
  • 2 cups Fresh Spinach can swap with kale or other leafy greens if desired
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Basil fresh basil gives a fragrant alternative
  • pinch Red Pepper Flakes omit for a milder profile
For the Finishing Touch
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan nutritional yeast works for a dairy-free option
  • to taste Salt & Black Pepper adjust based on preference

Equipment

  • large non-stick skillet

Method
 

Step-By-Step Instructions
  1. In a large non-stick skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.
  2. Add 1 pound of chicken breast tenderloins, seasoning with 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Sear for about 5-6 minutes, flipping occasionally until browned on all sides and cooked through.
  3. Stir in 1 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes and 1 cup of uncooked orzo, mixing well to coat the pasta. Continue to cook for another minute.
  4. Pour in 3 cups of chicken stock and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and let cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  5. Remove the lid and fold in 2 cups of fresh spinach, 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  6. Serve warm, garnished with freshly grated parmesan and optional basil ribbons.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 540kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 40gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 4000IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3.5mg

Notes

This dish is great for leftovers; the flavors deepen overnight, making it an even more delightful meal for the next day.

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