Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken Dinner (Print Version)
Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken is a comforting and flavorful one-pan meal. Tender chicken, al dente orzo, and a rich tomato cream sauce make for an easy weeknight dinner.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Italian
# Ingredients:
→ Savory Chicken Core
01 -
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 -
1 tbsp olive oil
03 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Aromatic Foundation & Flavor Boosters
04 -
1 tbsp olive oil
05 -
1/2 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
06 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
07 -
1 tsp dried oregano
08 -
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
→ Velvety Orzo Embrace
09 -
1 cup orzo pasta (uncooked)
10 -
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
11 -
2 cups chicken broth
12 -
1/2 cup heavy cream
→ Creamy Finish & Fresh Garnish
13 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
14 -
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
15 -
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
16 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
# Instructions:
01 -
Pat dry 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Season with salt and black pepper. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside; once cool enough, dice for your Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken.
02 -
In the same pot, add 1 tbsp olive oil. Sauté 1/2 medium yellow onion, finely chopped, over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add 3 cloves garlic, minced, 1 tsp dried oregano, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 -
Stir in 1 cup orzo pasta (uncooked), 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes, and 2 cups chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cook, stirring frequently, for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
04 -
Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until well combined and creamy. This step is crucial for the rich texture of your Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken.
05 -
Fold in the diced cooked chicken. Stir in 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped, and 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately for the best Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken experience.
# Notes:
01 -
For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. You can add a can of drained cannellini beans or chickpeas for extra protein.
02 -
Leftovers of Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it's too thick.
03 -
Garnish individual servings with extra fresh Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for an elevated presentation and burst of flavor.
04 -
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the very end can brighten all the flavors in this dish.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet or Dutch oven
02 -
Cutting board
03 -
Chef's knife
04 -
Measuring cups
05 -
Measuring spoons
06 -
Grater
07 -
Wooden spoon or spatula
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 564 kcal
Total Fat: 20 g
Total Carbohydrate: 44 g
Protein: 46 g