Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo Pasta Bake

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo Pasta Bake

This Chicken Orzo Pasta Bake is a flavorful, one-pan dish featuring tender chicken, creamy orzo, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach, all finished with Parmesan cheese. It's an easy, comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights!

Course Main Course, One Skillet

Cuisine Italian American

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings Servings

Calories 327kcal

Author Meghan Birnbaum

Equipment

Large skillet
Knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Tongs
Wooden spoon

Ingredients

1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
4-5 cloves garlic crushed
¾ cup sun-dried tomatoes julienned (packed in oil, drained)
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
2 teaspoons paprika
½ teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 cup orzo pasta
2 ¾ cups chicken broth
¾ Cup Heavy Cream
2 cups fresh spinach
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the cubed chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes until the edges turn white and the surface is no longer raw. (The chicken will finish cooking later in the process.)
Add seasonings: Stir in the julienned sun-dried tomatoes, crushed garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes.
Cook the orzo: Add the orzo and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir well, then reduce the heat to medium. Cover and let it cook for 12 minutes, stirring every 3-4 minutes to prevent sticking.
Add spinach: Once the orzo is tender, stir in the fresh spinach and heavy cream. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the sauce is creamy.
Finish and serve: Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and mix well. Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Optional baked finish: If you want a baked texture, transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle extra Parmesan on top, and broil for 3-5 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Nutrition