Best Tuscan Chicken Orzo

This Tuscan chicken orzo is a one-pan dish packed with rich, creamy flavor and vibrant Mediterranean ingredients. It combines tender chicken breasts with small, quick-cooking orzo pasta in a luscious sauce made from sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, spinach, and Parmesan. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting but easy to make with minimal cleanup.

I first tried this dish on a cold evening and was surprised how quickly it came together and how much my family enjoyed it. Now it’s a regular request when I want something cozy and filling without fuss.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: provide lean, juicy protein that pairs beautifully with creamy orzo
• Garlic powder and onion powder: boost the flavor of the chicken, bringing out a savory depth
• Olive oil and butter: add richness and help brown the chicken and aromatics perfectly
• Fresh garlic and onion: create the essential savory base that carries the dish
• Sun-dried tomatoes: offer a tangy sweetness that balances the richness of the cream
• Italian seasoning: contributes classic Mediterranean herbs like oregano and basil
• Orzo pasta: cooks quickly and soaks up all the savory broth and sauce flavors
• Chicken broth: is the liquid base for cooking orzo and building flavor
• Heavy cream: transforms the broth into a luxurious, velvety sauce
• Fresh spinach: adds bright color and a nutritious contrast to the richness
• Parmesan cheese: melts into the sauce, adding umami and a pleasant saltiness
• Fresh parsley: brightens the dish with a hint of freshness as a garnish
• Salt and pepper: are fundamental to season and balance all the flavors

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Season the chicken breasts on both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This seasoning creates a flavorful crust and adds depth to the meat.

Cook the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts in the pan and sear them for 6 to 7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside to rest while you prepare the rest.

Sauté the Aromatics:

Lower the heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet, then sauté finely minced garlic and diced onion for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often until soft, translucent, and fragrant. This step builds the foundation to infuse flavor into the entire dish.

Add Tomatoes and Seasoning:

Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Cook together for about one minute, allowing these bold flavors to meld and release their aromas.

Cook the Orzo:

Add dry orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring it to coat with the aromatics and fats. Pour in chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo has absorbed most of the liquid and is tender.

Finish the Dish:

Reduce the heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and fresh spinach, cooking just until the spinach wilts. Then add grated Parmesan cheese and stir thoroughly to create a creamy, smooth sauce that coats every grain of orzo.

Combine and Serve:

Nestle the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, letting them warm through for 2 to 3 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and serve immediately.

Save

One of my favorite things about this dish is how the creamy sauce and sun-dried tomatoes complement each other. I remember making this for a casual dinner party and hearing genuine compliments on how comforting yet elegant it tasted. It’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Storage tips

Let the leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Keep in the refrigerator for up to three days. To freeze, place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to two months. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or microwave and add a splash of broth or water to bring back the creamy texture you crave.

Ingredient substitutions

You can swap chicken breasts with thighs if you prefer darker, more flavorful meat that stays extra juicy. Or for a twist, try shrimp which pairs wonderfully with the creamy orzo sauce. Use gluten-free pasta if you need to avoid gluten. Pecorino Romano can substitute Parmesan for a sharper, saltier cheese option. Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to boost the veggie content and add different textures.

Serving suggestions

Serve this dish with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. Crusty bread or garlic bread on the side makes a perfect accompaniment for soaking up every last bit of sauce. A glass of chilled white wine complements the creamy, herbaceous flavors beautifully.

Cultural and historical context

This dish is inspired by the simple, rustic cooking of Tuscany, Italy, where fresh ingredients and straightforward techniques create deeply flavorful meals. Orzo, a staple pasta shape resembling grains of rice, is popular across Italy for quick cooking and versatility. Sun-dried tomatoes and aromatic herbs are signature to Tuscan cuisine, embodying the region’s love of fresh, bold flavors combined in elegant yet unpretentious ways.

Pro Tips

• Toast the orzo in the skillet before adding broth to develop a pleasantly nutty flavor that enhances the dish
• Use homemade or high-quality bone broth instead of store-bought chicken broth for richer taste and extra nutrition
• Deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine right after sautéing onions and garlic to add subtle acidity and complexity to your sauce

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs provide a juicier texture and blend well with the creamy orzo and medley of flavors.

→ Is there a way to enhance the flavor of the orzo?

Lightly toasting the orzo in the skillet before adding broth brings out a nutty depth, enriching the dish’s overall taste.

→ What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

Pecorino Romano is a great alternative, offering a sharper, saltier profile that complements the creamy sauce.

→ How can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini can be added during the sautéing stage to introduce extra texture and flavor.

→ Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap the orzo for a gluten-free pasta variety and follow the same cooking method.

→ What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Gently warm on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to restore the creamy consistency.