Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo is a rich and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and the bold taste of sun-dried tomatoes. The orzo pasta soaks up the creamy sauce, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that’s both indulgent and balanced. With a combination of savory chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy base, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (packed in oil)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
• Fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Scrape the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.
6. While the sauce simmers, cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
7. Add the cooked orzo to the skillet with the sauce, stirring to combine and coat the pasta with the creamy mixture.
8. Return the chicken to the skillet, slicing it into strips and placing it on top of the orzo.
9. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
10. Garnish with freshly chopped basil, if desired, and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier alternative.
• Add spinach or kale for extra vegetables and nutrients.
• For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk.
• Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep the sauce creamy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute the orzo with any small pasta, such as penne or farfalle, for a similar texture.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Simply reheat and add the cooked orzo when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use sun-dried tomatoes in water instead of oil-packed?
Yes, but oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes provide more flavor and richness in the sauce. If using water-packed, you might want to add a little extra olive oil.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is not gluten-free due to the orzo. However, you can use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.

Can I freeze this dish?
While you can freeze the chicken and sauce, the orzo may not hold up as well after freezing. If freezing, store the sauce and chicken separately from the pasta and combine them after reheating.

Conclusion

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo is the ultimate comfort dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and the bold, tangy flavor of sun-dried tomatoes. It’s rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for any night of the week. With its creamy texture and savory depth, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

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