Looking for a quick filling dinner that the whole family will love? This creamy sun-dried tomato chicken orzo is just the ticket! I remember when my son, Jake, first tried it; he couldn’t stop raving about how creamy and delicious it was. It’s perfect for those busy August nights when you want something easy yet comforting.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love It
- It’s a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze.
- Packed with protein from the chicken and orzo, it keeps you full and satisfied.
- The sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of flavor that brightens up the dish.
Pure Comfort
This dish is pure comfort food, combining creamy textures with savory chicken and tangy sun-dried tomatoes. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for any night of the week.
What You Need
- 1 lb 1 lb chicken breast, diced – You can substitute with turkey for a leaner option.
- 1 cup 1 cup orzo pasta – Whole wheat orzo can be used for added fiber.
- 1 cup 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped – Use oil-packed for extra flavor.
- 1 1 small onion, diced – Shallots work well as a milder alternative.
- 2 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- 1 cup 1 cup chicken broth – Vegetable broth is a great vegetarian substitute.
- 1 cup 1 cup heavy cream – For a lighter version, use half-and-half.
- 1 tsp 1 tsp Italian seasoning – Feel free to add fresh herbs like basil or oregano.
- to taste Salt and pepper to taste – Adjust according to your preference.
Time to Cook
Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 20 minutes | Total: 30 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: You can prep the ingredients a day in advance.
Steps to Make It
- Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. You want it to be golden brown and cooked through, so keep an eye on it.
- Once the chicken is cooked, add the diced onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This will add a lovely sweetness to the dish.
- Next, stir in the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the garlic to soften and release its aroma. This step really brings the flavors together.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the orzo and Italian seasoning, stirring well. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Once the orzo is cooked, reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Mix everything until it’s creamy and well combined. The sauce should be smooth and coat the orzo nicely.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a final stir and let it simmer for another 2 minutes. This is the time to adjust the seasoning to your liking.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy the creamy goodness and watch your family dig in!
Make It Perfect
- For extra flavor, try adding grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
- If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.
- Make sure to taste as you go; seasoning can vary based on personal preference.
Mix It Up
- Add spinach or kale for a boost of greens.
- Swap out the chicken for shrimp or sausage for a different protein option.
Perfect Partners
- Serve with a side salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Garlic bread pairs wonderfully to soak up the creamy sauce.
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FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients in advance, but it’s best to cook it fresh for optimal creaminess.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
Can I freeze this recipe?
Freezing isn’t recommended due to the cream, but you can freeze the base (without cream) and add it later.
What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
Roasted red peppers can be a tasty alternative.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Just store the components separately until you’re ready to enjoy.
Conclusion
This creamy sun-dried tomato chicken orzo is a fantastic option for quick filling dinners. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try this September and enjoy a healthy, high-protein meal that’s easy to whip up!
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo
Equipment
- Large Skillet
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 lb pound chicken breast, diced You can substitute with turkey for a leaner option.
- 1 cup cup orzo pasta Whole wheat orzo can be used for added fiber.
- 1 cup cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped Use oil-packed for extra flavor.
- 1 small onion, diced Shallots work well as a milder alternative.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- 1 cup cup chicken broth Vegetable broth is a great vegetarian substitute.
- 1 cup cup heavy cream For a lighter version, use half-and-half.
- 1 tsp teaspoon Italian seasoning Feel free to add fresh herbs like basil or oregano.
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust according to your preference.
Instructions
- Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. You want it to be golden brown and cooked through, so keep an eye on it.
- Once the chicken is cooked, add the diced onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This will add a lovely sweetness to the dish.
- Next, stir in the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the garlic to soften and release its aroma. This step really brings the flavors together.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the orzo and Italian seasoning, stirring well. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Once the orzo is cooked, reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Mix everything until it’s creamy and well combined. The sauce should be smooth and coat the orzo nicely.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a final stir and let it simmer for another 2 minutes. This is the time to adjust the seasoning to your liking.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy the creamy goodness and watch your family dig in!