Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken Recipe: Quick Comfort in a Bowl

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken is the perfect dish for comfort food lovers. It combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and flavorful orzo pasta in one bowl. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, so your family will love it. The mix of ingredients provides a deliciously rich flavor that will keep you coming back for more.

How to Make Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Can substitute with vegetable oil.)
• 3 cloves Minced Garlic (Freshly minced is best.)
• 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning (Can use dried oregano and basil.)
• 14.5 ounces Diced Tomatoes (with juice) (Fresh or crushed tomatoes are alternatives.)
• 2 cups Chicken Broth (Vegetable broth can also be used.)
• 1 cup Heavy Cream (Can substitute with half-and-half or coconut milk.)
• 1 cup Orzo Pasta (Gluten-free orzo is a substitute.)
• 1 pound Chicken Breast (Chicken thighs can be used for more flavor.)
• 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan (Nutritional yeast is a vegan alternative.)
• 2 cups Baby Spinach (Can substitute with kale or Swiss chard.)
• 1/4 cup Fresh Basil (Parsley makes a suitable substitute.)
• to taste Black Pepper (Red pepper flakes can be added for a kick.)

Directions:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in the Italian seasoning and diced tomatoes (with juice). Cook for 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors blend.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Add the orzo pasta and cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until al dente.
6. While the orzo cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a separate pan, cook the chicken over medium heat until it’s no longer pink, about 6-7 minutes on each side. Once cooked, chop into bite-sized pieces.
7. When the orzo is done cooking, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Mix well until creamy.
8. Add the chopped chicken, baby spinach, and grated Parmesan. Stir until the spinach wilts and everything is combined. Season with black pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

How to Serve Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken

Serve the creamy tomato orzo hot in bowls. You can sprinkle extra Parmesan on top and add a fresh basil leaf for a beautiful presentation. Pair it with a simple salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce.

Tips to Make Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken

• For added flavor, marinate the chicken in Italian seasoning for an hour before cooking.
• If you like some spice, add red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic.
• Feel free to add more veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms to boost the nutritional value.

Variation

You can easily make this a vegetarian dish by omitting the chicken and adding more vegetables. Try chickpeas or lentils for protein, or use tofu for a meat substitute.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure it is fully cooked before adding it to the orzo.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free orzo pasta.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to eat.

Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken

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• Author: jurgentukur
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Diet: Poultry

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Description

A comforting and quick dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and flavorful orzo pasta, perfect for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 3 cloves Minced Garlic
• 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
• 14.5 ounces Diced Tomatoes (with juice)
• 2 cups Chicken Broth
• 1 cup Heavy Cream
• 1 cup Orzo Pasta
• 1 pound Chicken Breast
• 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan
• 2 cups Baby Spinach
• 1/4 cup Fresh Basil
• to taste Black Pepper

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in the Italian seasoning and diced tomatoes (with juice). Cook for 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors blend.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Add the orzo pasta and cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until al dente.
6. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a separate pan, cook the chicken over medium heat until it’s no longer pink, about 6-7 minutes on each side. Once cooked, chop into bite-sized pieces.
7. When the orzo is done cooking, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Mix well until creamy.
8. Add the chopped chicken, baby spinach, and grated Parmesan. Stir until the spinach wilts and everything is combined. Season with black pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Notes

For added flavor, marinate the chicken in Italian seasoning for an hour before cooking. Add red pepper flakes for a kick.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian