Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo Recipe

If you’re hunting for a meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, you’ve absolutely got to try this Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo. It’s the perfect blend of tender chicken, rich creaminess, and that unmistakable pop of tangy sun-dried tomatoes, all tossed with delicate orzo pasta and fresh spinach. This dish is both comforting and elegant, making it an everyday winner or a special dinner treat that leaves everyone asking for seconds. Once you dive into the luscious sauce and flavors, I promise this recipe will become one of your go-to favorites for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo lies in its simplicity and how every ingredient plays a starring role. From the bright acidity of sun-dried tomatoes to the cozy creaminess of heavy cream and the aromatic herbs seasoning the chicken, each component enhances the overall flavor, texture, and visual appeal. You’ll want these essentials on hand to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and satisfying from the very first bite.

• 1 lb chicken breast tenderloins: These cook quickly and stay juicy, making them perfect for this dish.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Used for searing the chicken—adds richness and helps develop flavor.
• 1 tsp paprika: Brings smoky warmth that complements the sun-dried tomatoes beautifully.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant herb blend that lifts the profile of the chicken.
• ¼ tsp salt & ¼ tsp black pepper: Essential to season both chicken and orzo perfectly.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: For roasting garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and orzo to add depth.
• 5 cloves garlic minced: Aromatic garlic is the foundation of savory goodness here.
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped: These little bursts of flavor provide tang and color.
• 1 cup orzo uncooked: Pasta shaped like rice, perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce.
• 2 cups chicken stock: Creates the cooking liquid and adds savory backbone.
• 4 oz fresh spinach: Adds freshness and a pop of green color while wilting into the sauce.
• ½ cup heavy cream: The star of the “creamy” part, making everything luxuriously smooth.
• 1 tbsp dried basil: Herby and slightly sweet, balancing the richness.
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes: Just a touch of heat to keep things interesting.
• 2 tbsp grated parmesan: Finishing touch that adds umami and a hint of salty tang.

How to Make Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss your chicken breast tenderloins with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Then, sear the chicken for about 3 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and beautifully coated with those fragrant spices. This step locks in the juiciness and infuses the meat with flavor, setting the stage for the creamy orzo to come.

Step 2: Cook Garlic, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Orzo

Remove the chicken from the skillet to rest for a moment. Add a splash more olive oil to the pan, then sauté minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes until fragrant and glossy, about a minute or two. Toss in the uncooked orzo and roast it in the pan for 2 minutes, stirring frequently to toast it lightly and build a nutty flavor that’s about to marry the sauce.

Step 3: Simmer the Orzo in Chicken Stock

Pour in 2 cups of savory chicken stock and sprinkle ¼ teaspoon of salt. Bring it to a gentle boil, then cover the skillet with a lid and lower the heat to let the orzo cook for 5 to 8 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks or burns. This is where the pasta softens perfectly as it absorbs the flavorful broth, creating a tender base for the creamy sauce.

Step 4: Add Fresh Spinach

Once the orzo is nearly tender, stir in fresh spinach leaves. They will quickly wilt into the mixture in 2 to 3 minutes, adding a vibrant green hue and fresh, earthy flavor that balances the creaminess and rich tomato tang.

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Seasonings

Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, then sprinkle in dried basil and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together until the sauce transforms into a luscious, velvety coating that clings beautifully to the orzo and spinach. This step makes your dish irresistibly creamy with just the right hint of heat and herbaceous notes.

Step 6: Return Chicken to the Pan

Nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet and cover it. Let it simmer gently for 2 to 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to finish cooking in that fragrant cream sauce, tenderizing even more and soaking up the wonderful flavors. This final simmer brings all elements together in perfect harmony.

Step 7: Finish with Parmesan

Just before serving, remove the pan from the heat and sprinkle grated parmesan on top. This salty, nutty cheese melts slightly into the warm dish, adding an extra layer of flavor and richness that’s pure comfort in a bite.

How to Serve Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo

Garnishes

To elevate your Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo, consider garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or basil leaves to bring a fresh herbaceous note and a pop of color. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the dish and add a lovely finish that cuts through the creaminess.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but pairing it with a crisp simple salad—like arugula with a lemon vinaigrette or a light cucumber salad—balances the richness perfectly. Garlic bread or warm crusty baguette slices are also fantastic for soaking up every last bit of that creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo in individual shallow bowls topped with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a handful of sun-dried tomato crisps. You can also plate the chicken separately sliced over the orzo for a more elegant presentation that wows guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop even more after resting, making the next-day meal just as tasty. Just be sure to cool it before refrigerating to keep everything fresh.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if you want to save portions for a quick meal later. Place leftovers in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of chicken stock or cream as you rewarm to bring back its creamy texture and prevent it from drying out. Stir frequently until warmed through for the best taste and consistency.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of tenderloins?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add an even richer flavor and stay juicy, but make sure to adjust cooking time slightly until they are fully cooked through.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of flour or cornstarch to thicken, but the dish won’t be quite as rich and creamy.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. Add hearty veggies like mushrooms or zucchini for extra texture and flavor.

What’s the best way to chop sun-dried tomatoes?

Using kitchen scissors or a sharp knife, chop the sun-dried tomatoes finely enough to distribute their flavor evenly without overwhelming the dish with big chunks.

How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?

The ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes adds just a subtle kick, enhancing the flavor without making it spicy. Feel free to adjust to taste or omit if you prefer no heat.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend the Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo enough—it’s one of those dishes that hits every craving spot with its rich sauce, bright tomatoes, tender chicken, and satisfying pasta. It’s incredibly easy to prepare yet feels so special on the plate. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe brings warmth and joy to the table. Go ahead and try it—you might just find your new favorite comfort food!

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