Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo is a hearty and flavorful one-pan meal that blends tender chicken, creamy orzo pasta, and the rich, tangy taste of sun-dried tomatoes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a comforting dish that’s both simple and elegant.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
chicken breasts or thighsolive oilbuttergarlic clovesonionsun-dried tomatoes in oilorzo pastaheavy creamchicken brothparmesan cheesespinachsalt and pepperbasil (optional for garnish)

directions

Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
Sear the chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same pan, sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant.
Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
Stir in the orzo and toast it lightly.
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
Simmer, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and creamy.
Add spinach and parmesan cheese, stirring until the spinach wilts.
Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the creamy orzo.
Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Swap spinach for kale or arugula for a different green.
Use grilled or roasted chicken for an added smoky flavor.
Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Add mushrooms for an extra layer of earthiness.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to maintain creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta?
Yes, small pasta like couscous or mini shells work, but orzo offers the best creamy texture.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes in oil?
Rehydrate dry sun-dried tomatoes in warm water, then chop and use.

How can I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.

What type of chicken works best?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal.

Can I add extra vegetables?
Yes, bell peppers, zucchini, or peas make great additions.

Do I need to precook the orzo?
No, the orzo cooks directly in the creamy sauce for maximum flavor.

What can I serve it with?
A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, just add it towards the end to warm through without overcooking.

Conclusion

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo is a deliciously comforting dish that brings together creamy textures, savory chicken, and the tangy pop of sun-dried tomatoes. It’s quick enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for entertaining. One bite and you’ll see why it’s destined to become a favorite