Orzo with Chicken, Spinach, and Sun Dried Tomatoes (40 Minutes)

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Orzo, though often mistaken for a grain, is actually a small rice-shaped pasta, and it’s perfect for creating dishes that are both comforting and elegant. This recipe brings together succulent chicken breast, earthy spinach, and the rich intensity of sundried tomatoes in a creamy sauce. The end result is a dish that is both nourishing and packed with flavor, making it a great choice for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 whole chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup sundried tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh herbs for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Orzo (10 minutes): In a pot of boiling salted water, cook the orzo until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Season and Sear the Chicken (12 minutes): Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and nearly cooked through.
  3. Add Garlic and Sundried Tomatoes (3 minutes): Push the chicken breasts to one side of the skillet. Add the minced garlic to the empty side, sautéing until fragrant. Stir in the sundried tomatoes, ensuring they’re warmed through.
  4. Integrate Spinach and Cream (5 minutes): Spread out the fresh spinach in the skillet around the chicken. Let it wilt slightly, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently around the chicken, ensuring the spinach and sundried tomatoes mix with the cream.
  5. Blend Orzo and Cheese (4 minutes): Add the cooked orzo to the skillet, gently stirring it into the creamy mixture. Pour in chicken broth as necessary to maintain a creamy consistency. Mix in the Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the dish is uniformly creamy.
  6. Serve (2 minutes): Plate each chicken breast atop a generous serving of creamy orzo. Garnish with herbs as desired.

Notes

For a perfect sear on your chicken, ensure the skillet is hot but not smoking before adding the chicken breasts. The sundried tomatoes bring a concentrated flavor, but if they seem too intense, pre-soak them in warm water. Pairing this dish with a glass of white wine accentuates its rich flavors. Always let your chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain juiciness. A side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy orzo.

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.heresyourdinner.com/orzo-with-chicken-spinach-and-sun-dried-tomatoes-40-minutes/