A cozy, one-pan meal featuring golden seared chicken, creamy orzo pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, garlic, and Parmesan. Baked to perfection in a rich Tuscan-inspired sauce.
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups dry orzo pasta
2 cups chicken broth
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
2 cups fresh baby spinach
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Preheat oven to 375°F.
Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear in oil in an oven-safe skillet, 3–4 minutes per side. Set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté onion for 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
Stir in dry orzo. Toast for 1–2 minutes. Add broth, cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach. Stir.
Nestle chicken into orzo. Cover with foil and bake 20–25 minutes.
Remove foil, top with Parmesan, and bake another 5–10 minutes uncovered.
Rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Substitute coconut milk for dairy-free option.
Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
Add mushrooms or zucchini for extra vegetables.
Leftovers keep 3–4 days refrigerated.