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One-Pan Tuscan Chicken Orzo

One-Pan Tuscan Chicken Orzo for Cozy Family Dinners

One-Pan Tuscan Chicken Orzo is a creamy, flavorful dish perfect for a quick family dinner, made in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Chicken Breasts Sear for extra flavor.
For the Orzo
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Can substitute with any small pasta type.
Creamy Elements
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Use half-and-half or dairy-free alternative for lighter version.
Spice and Flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Adjust based on spice preference.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic preferred; garlic powder works too.
Vegetables
  • 2 cups Spinach Fresh or frozen, thaw and drain if frozen.
Cooking Essentials
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can use vegetable oil if needed.
For Garnishing
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Omit for dairy-free version or swap with nutritional yeast.

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then carefully place them in the skillet. Sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
  2. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Stir in 1 cup of orzo pasta and 2 cups of chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for around 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente.
  4. Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet with the orzo. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and a generous sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and allow it to simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes.
  5. Add in 2 cups of fresh spinach, stirring until it wilts down into the creamy sauce, which should take about 2 minutes.
  6. Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving. Serve warm, perhaps with a piece of crusty bread.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 25IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

This recipe stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently.

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