One Pot Tuscan Chicken Orzo: A Creamy Weeknight Favorite

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Looking for a flavorful and easy dinner that requires minimal cleanup? This One Pot Tuscan Chicken Orzo recipe brings together juicy chicken, tender pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach in a rich and creamy sauce. It’s a wholesome meal that cooks in just one dish and is perfect for busy evenings.

Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe offers a satisfying balance of protein, carbs, and greens—all with the comforting flavors of the Mediterranean.

Why This Recipe Works

The magic of one-pot meals lies in their simplicity. All ingredients simmer together, letting the orzo absorb the flavor of the broth, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic. The result? A creamy, savory dish with minimal effort and clean-up.

This dish is especially great because:

  • It uses pantry staples and fresh ingredients
  • The orzo cooks directly in the broth, enhancing its flavor
  • It can be customized with your favorite veggies or herbs
  • It makes enough to feed a crowd or provide leftovers

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 2 cups dry orzo pasta
  • 3 ½ cups chicken stock (for deep flavor, use stock over broth)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
  • 3 cups cooked chicken (diced or shredded)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (4-ounce) jar sun-dried tomatoes in oil, diced
  • 3 cups chopped fresh spinach (or 1½ cups frozen)
  • 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Prepare the baking dish. In a large casserole or baking dish, combine the orzo, chicken, garlic, seasonings, sun-dried tomatoes (including oil), spinach, chicken stock, and heavy cream. Stir thoroughly to ensure all pasta is coated.
  3. Bake. Place the dish uncovered in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the orzo has absorbed most of the liquid and is tender.
  4. Finish the dish. Remove from the oven and gently fold in the parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  5. Serve. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad.

Recipe Tips and Variations

  • Swap the greens. If you don’t have spinach, kale or Swiss chard work well.
  • Add more vegetables. Mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or red bell peppers add flavor and nutrients.
  • Use leftover chicken. Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option.
  • Make it extra cheesy. Add pecorino romano or mozzarella for a deeper cheese profile.
  • Go gluten-free. Substitute the orzo with gluten-free pasta that holds shape during baking.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 556
  • Protein: 35g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fat: 26g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Calcium: 253mg
  • Iron: 2mg

Note: Values are estimates based on standard ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this creamy Tuscan chicken orzo with:

  • Garlic bread
  • A crisp green salad
  • Roasted seasonal vegetables
  • A glass of chilled white wine

This dish is filling enough on its own, but these pairings add freshness and balance to the meal.

Storage and Reheating

  • Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Not recommended due to the dairy content, which may separate when thawed.
  • Reheating: Add a splash of water or cream before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble all the ingredients in the baking dish (except the cheese), refrigerate it, and bake when ready.

What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
Roasted red peppers or cherry tomatoes work well, though they’ll offer a different flavor.

Can I use raw chicken?
It’s best to use cooked chicken to avoid undercooking or overcooking the pasta. However, you can dice raw chicken and sauté it briefly before combining.

Is orzo a type of rice?
No, orzo is a short-cut pasta that looks like large grains of rice but cooks like traditional pasta.

How do I make it dairy-free?
Use coconut cream in place of heavy cream and skip the cheese, or use dairy-free cheese alternatives.

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Conclusion

This One Pot Tuscan Chicken Orzo recipe combines ease, nutrition, and comfort into a single dish. Its creamy texture, savory flavors, and hearty ingredients make it a go-to for family dinners or meal prep. Feel free to experiment with add-ins or tweak seasonings to make it your own.

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