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Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo

creamy sun-dried tomato chicken orzo - featured image
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A quick and easy 25-minute dinner featuring tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy sauce with orzo pasta. Perfect for weeknights, this comforting dish balances rich flavors and simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 cup orzo pasta (about 6 oz)
  • 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained slightly
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, or mix)
  • Optional: fresh spinach or mushrooms for added greens
  • Optional: crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne for spice
  • Optional: fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized 1-inch pieces. Chop the sun-dried tomatoes finely. Mince the garlic. Measure out the orzo pasta.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  3. Add chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs. Cook 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned and nearly cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
  4. In the same pan, add a little more olive oil if needed. Sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and garlic is golden but not burnt.
  5. Add dry orzo to the pan and stir to coat with oil and tomato mixture. Slowly pour in 3 cups chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
  6. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until orzo is tender but not mushy.
  7. Uncover, stir chicken back in, and pour in 1/2 cup heavy cream. Cook uncovered for 3-4 minutes until sauce thickens slightly and chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature.
  8. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
  9. Let the dish rest off heat for 2 minutes to thicken the sauce and meld flavors before serving.

Notes

Watch the orzo carefully to avoid burning or overcooking. Stir occasionally and add broth or water if it looks too dry. Use low sodium broth to control saltiness. Add cream near the end to prevent sauce splitting. Freshly grate Parmesan for best melting and flavor. Variations include vegetarian, dairy-free, low-carb, and spicy versions.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy chicken orzo, sun-dried tomato chicken, quick dinner, easy weeknight meal, one-pan dinner, creamy pasta, chicken recipe

Find it online: https://flurpchef.com/creamy-sun-dried-tomato-chicken-orzo-recipe-easy-25-minute-dinner/