Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This One Pot Tuscan Chicken Orzo is a creamy, flavorful, and comforting dish that comes together effortlessly in just one pan. With tender orzo pasta, savory chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach, all simmered in a rich, creamy sauce, this dish is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s a complete meal that requires minimal prep time and is easy to make, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. One Pot Tuscan Chicken Orzo

Ingredients

2 cups dried orzo
3 ½ cups chicken stock
1 cup heavy cream
3 cups cooked chicken, diced
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
¼ tsp red pepper flakes
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (4 oz) jar sun-dried tomatoes (with oil), diced
3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Combine Ingredients:

In a baking dish, add the orzo, chicken stock, heavy cream, diced chicken, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and chopped spinach.
Stir everything to ensure the orzo is fully covered by the liquid.

Bake:

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until most of the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is tender.

Finish the Dish:

Remove the baking dish from the oven and fold in the shredded Parmesan cheese.
Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Serve:

Serve the dish hot, and enjoy this creamy, comforting one-pot meal!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories: 556 kcal per serving

Variations

Add Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
Make it Spicy: If you prefer more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a chopped jalapeño.
Substitute the Chicken: Try using turkey, sausage, or even a vegetarian substitute like tofu for a variation in protein.
Lighter Version: Use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative to reduce the richness of the dish.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken stock or cream to keep it moist.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like farfalle, penne, or fusilli. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

Yes, you can use fresh diced tomatoes if you prefer, though the flavor will be different. Sun-dried tomatoes provide a deeper, more intense flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish and refrigerate it before baking. When ready, simply bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if necessary.

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can prepare this dish in a slow cooker. Combine the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the orzo is tender.

Conclusion

This One Pot Tuscan Chicken Orzo is a creamy, comforting meal that’s packed with flavor and easy to make. The combination of tender chicken, rich cream, and savory sun-dried tomatoes makes each bite delightful. Whether you’re feeding the family or serving guests, this dish is sure to impress and become a favorite in your recipe rotation.