Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time - 35-40 minutes

• Preparation Time - 10 minutes

• Cooking Time - 25-30 minutes

• Servings - 4 servings

• Calories per serving - Approximately 550-600 calories

• Key Nutrients: Protein - 40g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 28g

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 small)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Orzo and Sauce:

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup orzo pasta

• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 tablespoon butter

Ingredient Highlights

• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add a rich, tangy depth of flavor.

• Orzo Pasta: A quick-cooking, creamy alternative to risotto.

• Parmesan Cheese: Provides umami richness.

• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the Mediterranean flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Chicken:

1. Season Chicken: Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.

2. Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C). Remove and set aside.

Prepare the Orzo and Sauce:

1. Sauté Garlic: In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

2. Toast Orzo: Stir in the orzo and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.

3. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.

4. Cook Orzo: Cover and let cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

5. Add Cream and Parmesan: Pour in heavy cream and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

6. Stir in Spinach: Add chopped spinach and stir until wilted.

7. Return Chicken to Pan: Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet and spoon sauce over the top. Simmer for 2 minutes.