If you are craving a comforting yet vibrant meal, this Tuscan-Style Chicken Orzo Recipe is an absolute must-try. It brings together tender chicken, creamy orzo pasta, and bright, fresh flavors straight from the heart of Tuscany. The juicy chicken marries beautifully with the slow-simmered tomatoes and fragrant Italian herbs, while the spinach and Parmesan cheese add a lovely touch of freshness and richness. Whether you’re cooking a weekday dinner or impressing friends on the weekend, this dish delivers warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple and fresh ingredients is what makes this Tuscan-Style Chicken Orzo Recipe so special. Each component plays a vital role, whether it’s adding texture, infusing vibrant color, or building layers of flavor that come together effortlessly.
- 500g diced chicken breast: The lean protein that becomes tender and juicy when cooked just right.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Essential for sautéing and adding that classic Mediterranean richness.
- 1 onion, chopped: A natural sweetener and flavor base for the dish.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds warmth and a delicious aromatic punch.
- 1 bell pepper, diced: Brings a subtle crunch and pop of color.
- 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes: The heart of the Tuscan flavor with its vibrant acidity.
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs: A fragrant, herbal mix to elevate every bite.
- 300g orzo pasta: Small, rice-shaped pasta that absorbs flavor beautifully.
- 200ml chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth to the simmering mix.
- 100ml heavy cream: Gives the dish a creamy, dreamy texture.
- Fresh spinach: Loaded with nutrients and a fresh, earthy note.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: The perfect finishing touch for a savory boost.
- Salt and pepper: Basic yet crucial for seasoning to taste.
- Fresh basil: An herbal flourish that brightens the whole plate.
How to Make Tuscan-Style Chicken Orzo Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast and cook until it’s beautifully browned on all sides. This step locks in the juices, creating moist and flavorful chicken pieces. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside – you’ll bring it back into the dish later to soak up all the lovely flavors.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion and diced bell pepper. Sauté these until they soften and become slightly golden, about 5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This mixture forms a rich and flavorful base that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
Step 3: Simmer with Tomatoes, Orzo, and Broth
Now it’s time to introduce the canned diced tomatoes, dried Italian herbs, orzo pasta, and chicken broth into the skillet. Stir everything well, ensuring the orzo is evenly dispersed. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cover. Let it cook for 10 to 12 minutes until the orzo is tender and has absorbed much of the liquid. This step melds the flavors beautifully and makes the dish wonderfully hearty.
Step 4: Add Cream and Spinach
Once the orzo is perfectly cooked, stir in the heavy cream and fresh spinach. The cream brings a luscious silkiness to the sauce, while the spinach wilts down to add color and freshness. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes longer until the spinach is just tender but still vibrant.
Step 5: Return Chicken and Season
Finally, return the browned chicken pieces to the skillet and mix everything thoroughly. Season generously with salt and pepper to bring out the best flavors. Serve the Tuscan-Style Chicken Orzo Recipe hot, garnished generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a scattering of fresh basil leaves to complete this delightful meal.
How to Serve Tuscan-Style Chicken Orzo Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Tuscan-Style Chicken Orzo Recipe with a handful of grated Parmesan cheese and freshly torn basil leaves. These simple garnishes add a burst of flavor and aroma that will elevate every bite. Don’t be shy to add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a glossy finish and extra silkiness.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a fresh, crisp green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables. A side of crusty Italian bread or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce, creating a satisfying and well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve your Tuscan-Style Chicken Orzo Recipe in shallow bowls and sprinkle them with toasted pine nuts or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat. Adding a small lemon wedge on the side allows guests to customize a bright citrus note if they prefer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Tuscan-Style Chicken Orzo Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting overnight, making it a perfect dish for meal prep or quick lunches.
Freezing
If you want to freeze this dish, it’s best to do so before adding the cream and spinach, as dairy can change texture after freezing. Freeze the chicken, tomato, and orzo mixture in a sealed container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and stir in fresh cream and spinach while reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the dish gently on the stove over low heat to avoid curdling the cream. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if it becomes too thick. Stir frequently until warmed through and creamy once again.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?
Absolutely! While orzo is traditional and great for absorbing flavors, small pasta shapes like ditalini or tiny shells also work beautifully in this recipe.
Is this recipe suitable for a dairy-free diet?
You can easily make it dairy-free by swapping out the heavy cream for coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative, and either omitting or substituting the Parmesan with a plant-based cheese.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, just brown the chicken and sauté the veggies first, then combine all ingredients except cream and spinach in the slow cooker. Add cream and spinach towards the end of cooking for the best texture.
What wine pairs well with Tuscan-Style Chicken Orzo Recipe?
A light to medium-bodied white wine like Pinot Grigio or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy and herbal notes of this dish very well.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Zucchini, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes all add interesting textures and deepen the Tuscan inspiration.
Final Thoughts
This Tuscan-Style Chicken Orzo Recipe is truly one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s approachable, packed with flavor, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. I hope you’ll give it a try soon and enjoy every creamy, herby, comforting mouthful.
Print
Tuscan-Style Chicken Orzo Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Tuscan-Style Chicken Orzo is a creamy, comforting one-pan meal featuring tender diced chicken, flavorful vegetables, and orzo pasta cooked in a rich tomato and cream sauce. Infused with Italian herbs and fresh spinach, finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, this dish brings the taste of Tuscany to your table in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 500g diced chicken breast
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- Fresh spinach, to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Pantry and Dairy
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
- 300g orzo pasta
- 200ml chicken broth
- 100ml heavy cream
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Brown the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics and vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and diced bell pepper. Sauté until softened, around 4-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Simmer with orzo and tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes, dried Italian herbs, orzo pasta, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for 10-12 minutes or until the orzo is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add cream and spinach: Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Add fresh spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce is creamy.
- Combine and season: Return the browned chicken to the skillet. Mix everything together thoroughly and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
Notes
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter dish.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
- Fresh basil is best added just before serving to preserve its bright flavor.
- Ensure the orzo is cooked just right to maintain a pleasing texture without becoming mushy.
