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Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo Recipe for Easy Weeknight Dinner.

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo

A 30-minute, high-protein, one-pan meal featuring juicy seasoned chicken simmered in a creamy garlic and sun-dried tomato sauce with tender orzo and wilted spinach.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian, Mediterranean
Calories: 618

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken breast tenderloins
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil divided (2 for chicken, 1 for vegetables)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 5 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes drained and chopped, oil-packed preferred
  • 1 cup orzo uncooked
  • 2 cups chicken stock
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 4 oz fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream at room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels, then season evenly with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the chicken and sear for 3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove to a plate and set aside.
  2. Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the uncooked orzo and toast it for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  3. Pour in the chicken stock and 1/4 teaspoon salt, stirring well. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes to prevent sticking, until orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  4. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook uncovered for 1-2 minutes until completely wilted. Add the room temperature heavy cream, dried basil, and red pepper flakes, mixing until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  5. Nestle the seared chicken back into the orzo mixture. Simmer uncovered for 3-4 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from heat, sprinkle with grated parmesan, and serve immediately.

Notes

Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for the best flavor. Substitute gluten-free orzo for a gluten-free version. Coconut cream works as a dairy-free substitute for heavy cream. Stir the orzo every 2 minutes during cooking to prevent sticking. This dish reheats beautifully and is great for meal prep.