Zesty Tuscan Chicken and Orzo Skillet Recipe for Cozy Dinners

Weeknight dinners demand a hero, and this Tuscan chicken and orzo skillet emerges as a true culinary champion.

Creamy, aromatic, and packed with robust flavors, the dish comes together effortlessly in one pan.

Tender chicken nestles among perfectly cooked orzo, creating a symphony of textures that dance across your palate.

Sun-dried tomatoes and spinach add vibrant color and nutritional punch to the meal.

Garlic and herbs infuse every bite with Mediterranean-inspired warmth and depth.

Parmesan cheese melts luxuriously, binding all ingredients into a comforting embrace.

Dive into this skillet and savor a restaurant-quality dinner without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Calories: 550 kcal

Servings: 5

Tuscan Chicken and Orzo Skillet Ingredient

• Chicken Thighs: Juicy and flavorful cut that stays tender during cooking, selecting bone-in or boneless based on preference.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds rich, nutty depth to the dish, look for freshly grated for maximum flavor impact.

• Onions: Provides sweet undertone and foundational flavor, choose yellow or white varieties for best results.
• Garlic: Brings intense, warming essence to the recipe, selecting fresh cloves ensures maximum aromatic punch.
• Parsley: Adds bright, fresh finish to the dish, selecting vibrant green leaves indicates freshness.
• Spinach: Introduces nutritious green element, opt for fresh leaves with crisp texture.
• Lemon: Delivers zesty brightness, selecting ripe, firm citrus ensures maximum juice.

• Olive Oil: Creates smooth cooking base and adds subtle richness, choose extra virgin for best flavor.
• Chicken Broth: Provides moisture and depth, low-sodium versions allow better seasoning control.
• Heavy Cream: Creates luxurious, silky texture, selecting high-quality cream ensures smooth consistency.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Introduces concentrated tangy sweetness, packed varieties offer intense flavor.
• Orzo: Serves as hearty pasta base, selecting high-quality pasta ensures perfect texture.

• Salt: Enhances overall flavor profile.
• Black Pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity.
• Italian Seasoning: Delivers classic Mediterranean herb blend.

One-Pan Tools You’ll Need for This Italian Dish

• Large Skillet: Heavy-bottomed pan with high sides for searing chicken and cooking entire dish.
• Cutting Board: Sturdy surface for chopping onions, garlic, and parsley.
• Chef's Knife: Sharp blade for precise vegetable and herb preparation.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Essential for stirring and mixing ingredients without scratching skillet.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise tools for accurate ingredient quantities.
• Tongs: Perfect for flipping and handling chicken thighs during cooking.
• Cheese Grater: For freshly grating parmesan cheese.

How to Make Tuscan Chicken Orzo in One Skillet

• Chicken Preparation

Select bone-in chicken thighs and generously season with aromatic herbs and spices.

• Skillet Searing

Heat skillet to create a golden, crispy exterior on the chicken, developing rich caramelized flavors.

• Vegetable Foundation

Sauté fragrant onions and garlic, creating a robust base that infuses the entire dish with depth.

• Orzo Magic

Introduce orzo into the skillet, allowing it to absorb the complex flavors of the cooking liquid and pan remnants.

• Creamy Integration

Blend silky spinach and cream into the mixture, transforming the skillet into a luxurious one-pan wonder.

• Final Touches

Garnish with fresh parsley, tangy parmesan, and a bright citrus accent to elevate the entire dining experience.

Tips for Creamy Orzo with Tender Chicken

• Replace chicken thighs with boneless chicken breasts or tender chicken strips for different textures and lean protein options.
• Substitute chicken with firm tofu, roasted chickpeas, or plant-based chicken alternatives to create a delightful meat-free version.
• Experiment with fresh basil, oregano, or thyme instead of Italian seasoning to transform the dish's aromatic profile and add personal flair.
• Prepare the skillet meal in advance and store in refrigerator for up to 3 days, allowing flavors to develop and creating an easy meal prep option.
• Add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or chili powder for a zesty kick that elevates the overall taste and provides a warming sensation.

Serving Chicken Orzo Like a Rustic Italian Meal

• Elevate with Fresh Greens: Serve the skillet alongside a crisp arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to add brightness and balance the rich, creamy chicken dish.
• Create a Cozy Meal Companion: Pair with crusty ciabatta bread or garlic toast to soak up the delicious sauce and complement the tender chicken and orzo.
• Customize with Wine Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to enhance the Tuscan-inspired flavors and cut through the creamy texture.
• Add Texture with Garnish: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or additional chopped parsley on top for extra crunch and a fresh, herbal finish that makes the dish look and taste more vibrant.

Saving Tips Without Losing Creaminess

• Prep Ahead: Chop onions, mince garlic, and slice sun-dried tomatoes in advance to streamline cooking process and save time during busy weeknights.
• Refrigerate Wisely: Store leftover Tuscan chicken and orzo in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Keep the dish separate from garnishes like fresh parsley to maintain optimal texture.
• Reheat with Care: Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying. Stir occasionally to distribute heat evenly and restore creamy consistency.
• Freeze for Later: Pack cooled dish in freezer-safe containers, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Hearty Tuscan Chicken And Orzo Skillet Recipe

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4.9 from 33 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 5 1x

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Description

Hearty Tuscan chicken and orzo skillet delivers Mediterranean comfort with creamy parmesan sauce and tender chicken. Herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach create a delightful one-pan meal you’ll savor to the last bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 lbs (680 g) chicken thighs
• 4 tbsps olive oil, divided
• 1.5 cups orzo
• 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 3 cups fresh spinach
• ⅔ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
• ½ onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• ¼ tsp pepper
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Fresh chopped parsley
• Squeeze of lemon juice

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Instructions

1. Seasoning Preparation: Generously coat chicken thighs with a harmonious blend of salt, ground black pepper, and Italian seasoning, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
2. Searing Technique: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, strategically positioning seasoned chicken thighs to develop a golden-brown exterior, cooking 3-4 minutes per side until perfectly caramelized.
3. Aromatics Infusion: Remove chicken and in the same skillet, sauté diced onions, minced garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes until fragrant and translucent, releasing their intricate flavor profiles.
4. Orzo Integration: Introduce uncooked orzo and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a robust boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer, carefully nestling seared chicken thighs back into the skillet.
5. Creamy Transformation: Cover and cook until orzo reaches al dente perfection, then incorporate fresh spinach, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese, creating a velvety sauce that envelops the chicken.
6. Final Flourish: Plate the dish, garnishing with chopped parsley, an additional sprinkle of parmesan, and a vibrant lemon juice accent to elevate the culinary experience.

Notes

• Perfectly Sear Chicken: Achieve a golden-brown crust by patting chicken dry and using high heat to create a flavorful exterior that locks in moisture.
• Maximize Flavor Layering: Build depth by using the same skillet for sautéing onions and creating a base that captures the chicken’s delicious drippings.
• Cream Sauce Technique: Add cream and cheese off direct heat to prevent curdling and ensure a smooth, silky sauce that coats every ingredient perfectly.
• Fresh Finish Matters: Brighten the entire dish with a last-minute sprinkle of fresh herbs and lemon juice to elevate the final flavor profile and add a vibrant touch.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 650 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 130 mg