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Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo: Comfort in Every Creamy Bite

Enjoy a warm, hearty Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo, a delicious one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pieces Chicken Breast Substitute with shrimp or salmon for variation.
For the Orzo
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Whole wheat orzo can be used for a healthier option.
For the Sauce
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese Swap with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Can be replaced with coconut cream or cashew cream.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Preferred fresh for stronger flavor.
For the Vegetables
  • 2 cups Spinach Kale can work as an alternative.
  • ½ cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes Fresh tomatoes can be used, but will change the flavor.
For the Herbs
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Herbs Examples include basil and oregano; dried herbs can be used.

Equipment

  • large deep skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and no longer pink in the center. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add minced garlic, sautéing for approximately 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and add ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well and allow to simmer for about 3 minutes until slightly thickened and creamy.
  3. Add 1 cup of orzo pasta and ½ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce mixture, then pour in 2 cups of chicken broth. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil. Cover and let the orzo cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  4. Uncover and stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach and 1 teaspoon of Italian herbs. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach has wilted, creating vibrant colors among the creamy orzo and chicken.
  5. Return the sautéed chicken back to the skillet, stirring gently to combine all the ingredients. Allow everything to heat through for about 2 minutes, tasting and adjusting seasonings with salt and pepper as desired.
  6. Spoon the Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo onto plates, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired, serving hot for a comforting meal.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 900IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This dish is adaptable; feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or add vegetables as desired.

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