Description
Tuscan Chicken Orzo is a creamy, one-pot dish that captures the essence of Tuscany with its tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta. This delightful meal not only pleases the palate but also impresses visually, making it perfect for cozy nights or special gatherings. With rich flavors and easy preparation, Tuscan Chicken Orzo is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients by chopping vegetables and mincing garlic.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Season chicken with salt and pepper and sear for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove chicken from skillet.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add diced tomatoes and spinach; cook until spinach wilts.
- Pour in heavy cream and stir in pesto until combined.
- Add uncooked orzo and chicken broth (or water), season to taste, and bring to a simmer. Cook until orzo is al dente (about 10 minutes).
- Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return to the skillet. Gently fold together and allow flavors to meld for a few minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 400g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 120mg