Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken: Easy Weeknight Meal (Print Version)

Creamy Tomato Orzo with tender chicken is a comforting and quick dinner. This flavorful pasta dish combines rich tomato sauce, orzo, and juicy chicken.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Mediterranean

# Ingredients:

→ The Hearty Foundation

01 - 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
02 - 2 tbsp olive oil
03 - 1/2 yellow onion, diced
04 - 4 cloves garlic, minced

→ The Creamy Tomato Embrace

05 - 1 (28-oz) can crushed tomatoes
06 - 2 cups chicken broth
07 - 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta (uncooked)
08 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
09 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

→ Mediterranean Flavor Boosters

10 - 1 tsp dried oregano
11 - 1 tsp dried basil
12 - 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
13 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Fresh Finish & Garnish

14 - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
15 - 1/2 tsp lemon zest

# Instructions:

01 - Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast with salt and pepper. Sear until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside; this is the hearty foundation for your Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken Recipe.
02 - Add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil to the pot. Sauté 1/2 yellow onion, diced, until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in 4 cloves minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
03 - Pour in 1 (28-oz) can crushed tomatoes and 2 cups chicken broth. Stir in 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
04 - Add 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta to the simmering sauce. Cook, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid. This step is crucial for the perfect texture of your Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken Recipe.
05 - Reduce heat to low. Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Return the cooked chicken pieces to the pot, ensuring they are well coated in the creamy sauce.
06 - Season the Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken Recipe generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Garnish with 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, and 1/2 tsp lemon zest before serving immediately.

# Notes:

01 - For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add a can of drained cannellini beans or chickpeas for protein.
02 - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water.
03 - Serve this hearty orzo dish with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.
04 - A splash of white wine (about 1/4 cup) can be added after sautéing the garlic, letting it reduce before adding the crushed tomatoes for extra depth.

# Tools You'll Need:

01 - Large Skillet or Dutch Oven
02 - Cutting Board
03 - Chef's Knife
04 - Measuring Cups
05 - Measuring Spoons
06 - Grater

# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Calories: 670 kcal
Total Fat: 26 g
Total Carbohydrate: 57 g
Protein: 52 g

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