Introduction

Creamy and flavorful, this One-Pot Tuscan Chicken Orzo is a quick and easy meal that combines tender chicken, orzo pasta, fresh vegetables, and a luscious creamy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pot wonder delivers a comforting dish the whole family will love.

Ingredients:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 cup orzo pasta
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup spinach, chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the chicken pieces to the pot, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the orzo pasta and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat to a simmer and add the cherry tomatoes. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Stir in the chopped spinach, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the sauce is creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Variation

Sun-Dried Tomato Twist
Substitute the fresh cherry tomatoes with chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a richer, slightly tangy flavor. The sun-dried tomatoes add a concentrated sweetness that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. You can also use the oil they are packed in to sauté the onions for added depth of flavor.
Vegetarian Version
Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based chicken alternative. Portobello or cremini mushrooms bring a hearty texture that pairs well with the creamy orzo. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a full vegetarian transformation.
Cheese Upgrade
Swap the Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper, saltier flavor, or mix in shredded mozzarella for a gooey texture. These variations will create a slightly different yet equally indulgent creamy sauce.

Cooking Notes

For a burst of flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the Italian seasoning.
Substitute kale for spinach or use sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh cherry tomatoes for variation.
Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Crusty Bread Pairing
Serve with warm, crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce. The crunch of the bread complements the soft, velvety texture of the orzo, making for a satisfying meal.
Light Salad Side
Pair the dish with a light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The tanginess of the salad cuts through the creaminess of the dish, balancing the flavors beautifully.
Wine Recommendation
Enjoy with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly oaked Chardonnay. The wine’s acidity complements the creaminess of the sauce and enhances the Italian seasoning.

Tips

Layering Flavors
Sautéing the onion and garlic before adding the chicken builds a base of flavor for the dish. Don’t rush this step—it’s worth the extra time for the depth it adds.
Cream Consistency
Add the heavy cream off the heat to prevent curdling. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of warm broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
Herb Enhancement
Use fresh herbs whenever possible. Fresh basil and parsley can elevate the dish’s aroma and visual appeal, while dried herbs work well during the cooking process for robust flavor.

Prep Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 480 kcal
Protein: 36 g
Sodium: 650 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time, but it’s best to undercook the orzo slightly and reheat it gently with a splash of broth or cream to maintain its creamy texture.
Can I freeze leftovers?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to one month. However, the texture of the orzo may become softer upon reheating. Use an airtight container for freezing and reheat gently on the stovetop.
What other vegetables can I add?
You can add diced zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrients. These vegetables cook quickly and blend seamlessly with the creamy sauce.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, small pasta shapes like couscous, ditalini, or small shells can work well. Adjust the cooking time based on the pasta package instructions to ensure it cooks properly.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Tuscan Chicken Orzo is the perfect combination of ease and indulgence. With tender chicken, creamy orzo, and fresh vegetables all in one dish, it’s a quick yet impressive meal that’s ideal for family dinners or entertaining. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh or experimenting with variations, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

One-Pot Tuscan Chicken Orzo

Author: Avery
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Ingredients

Scale

Instructions

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the chicken pieces to the pot, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the orzo pasta and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat to a simmer and add the cherry tomatoes. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Stir in the chopped spinach, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the sauce is creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Notes

For a burst of flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the Italian seasoning.
Substitute kale for spinach or use sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh cherry tomatoes for variation.
Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: One-Pot Cooking
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 480 kcal
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 650 mg
Fat: 19 g
Saturated Fat: 9 g
Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 43 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 36 g
Cholesterol: 120 mg

Keywords: Tuscan chicken orzo, creamy chicken pasta, one-pot meal