EASY Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo is a rich one-pan dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 large chicken breasts sliced in half lengthwise
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large shallot finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 1½ cups orzo
- ½ cup non-alcoholic white grape juice or additional broth
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard optional
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme
- 3 cups vegetable stock chicken stock, or water
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- ½ cup parmesan cheese grated
- ¼ cup fresh basil sliced
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
Instructions
- Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken for 1–2 minutes per side until lightly golden. Remove and set aside.
- Add butter to the skillet. Stir in the shallot, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add the sun-dried tomatoes and dry orzo. Toast for 1–2 minutes while stirring frequently.
- Pour in the non-alcoholic white grape juice and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Stir in Dijon mustard, thyme, and stock. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and return the chicken to the skillet.
- Cover and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken and slice it into strips.
- Stir the heavy cream, parmesan cheese, spinach, basil, and lemon juice into the orzo until creamy and smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Return the sliced chicken to the skillet and arrange it on top of the Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo.
- Garnish with additional basil and serve immediately.
Notes
- Serve with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
- For extra protein, add cooked chickpeas.
- Increase the red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness and balances the richness.
- Store leftovers for easy lunches throughout the week.