Creamy Sundried Tomato Chicken Orzo
Table of Contents
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo: Your New Weeknight Hero
Fancy a bit of sunshine on your plate? Ever had a dish that feels like a warm hug? This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo is exactly that.
It's packed with flavor, super easy to make, and guaranteed to be a crowd pleaser.
Quick & Easy? You Betcha!
This recipe is one of my go-tos for Quick Filling Dinners . It's also awesome as a Easy Healthy Comfort Food dinner .
Honestly, it’s faster than ordering takeout. Plus, it's much healthier and way more satisfying.
A Little Bit of Italy in Your Kitchen
Originating from Italian flavors, think Tuscany, this dish brings those sun-soaked vibes straight to your table. It's easy peasy seriously, anyone can nail it! We're talking about 40 minutes total from start to finish, yielding about 4 servings.
Perfect for a family dinner or a cheeky meal prep session.
Why This Recipe Rocks
Okay, mate, let's whip up a killer list for this "Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo" recipe, shall we?
The main benefit? It’s delicious! But also, it's packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the orzo. It's an Easy Healthy Pasta Dinner that feels indulgent but is actually good for you.
Serve this up on a chilly evening for some serious Easy Healthy Comfort Food . This is one of those Easy August Dinners that is both comforting and light enough to enjoy even in warmer weather.
It's not just another Easy Meals Chicken recipe; it's a flavor explosion! I love how the sweetness of the tomatoes balances the richness of the cream.
And let's be honest, who doesn't love a good Chicken Orzo Recipe ?
Grab Your Ingredients
Right then, let's see what you'll need. We're talking chicken breasts, orzo pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, some cream, and a few other bits and bobs.
Nothing too fancy, promise! Get ready, because that Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta magic is about to happen. This recipe is like a simpler, quicker version of Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta , perfect for a Weeknight Chicken Dinner .
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get This Show On The Road
Okay, mate, let's talk ingredients for this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo . Honestly, it's easier than you think. No need to stress! This is a recipe for Easy Healthy Comfort Food , remember?
Main Ingredients The Stars of the Show
Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Aim for around 600g total (that's about 1.3 lbs for you across the pond). Make sure they are of decent quality.
Orzo Pasta: You'll need 1 cup of orzo ( 200g , or about 7 oz ).
Chicken Broth: Grab 1 cup of good chicken broth ( 240ml ).
Heavy Cream: You'll need ½ cup ( 120ml ). This is where the creaminess comes from, so don't skip it!. If you want Easy Healthy Pasta Dinner , try a lighter cream.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: ½ cup of sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped ( 70g or 2.5 oz ). The jarred kind is best!
Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup grated ( 30g ). And keep extra for serving. Because, well, cheese.
Olive Oil: We're talking about 1 tbsp ( 15ml ) for cooking the chicken, and another 1 tbsp for the orzo.
Butter: You'll need 1 tbsp of unsalted butter ( 15g ) for the sauce.
Seasoning Notes Flavour Bombs!
We're going to keep things simple. Salt, pepper, and dried Italian seasoning. A little red pepper flake is essential if you want a bit of heat.
You can use whatever is on hand!. Fresh basil is non-negotiable! . Seriously.
Salt & Pepper: ½ tsp salt ( 3g ) and ¼ tsp black pepper ( 1g ) for the chicken, plus more to taste.
Italian Seasoning: 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning ( 3g ).
Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ tsp optional ( 1g ).
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced.
Equipment Needed Keep It Simple
You don't need fancy stuff for Easy August Dinners . Just the basics.
- Large skillet.
- Large pot.
- Cutting board.
- Chef’s knife.
- Measuring cups and spoons.
That's it! Now you're armed and ready to make this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo ! It really does make for Quick Filling Dinners !
Enjoy cooking!
Cooking Method: Sautéing Like a Pro
Alright, mate, let's whip up a killer list for this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo recipe, shall we? Think of me as your personal SEO Gordon Ramsay, but less shouty.
We are aiming to make a meal that embodies easy healthy comfort food , and is one of those quick filling dinners you can rely on any day.
Prep Steps
Essential mise en place is key here. Get your chicken breasts pounded. I use a rolling pin if I can't find my mallet, honestly.
Chop those sun-dried tomatoes. Mince the garlic. Get everything ready!
Time saving organization tips : Measure out all your spices and have them ready to go. Trust me, it makes a difference when you're in the thick of it.
Safety reminders : Always wash your hands after handling raw chicken. You know? It's a no-brainer, but worth a mention.
step-by-step Process
- Season those chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat.
- Sauté chicken for about 5- 7 minutes per side, until golden brown. The internal temperature should be 165° F ( 74° C) . Take them out and set them aside.
- While the chicken cooks, get that orzo going! Cook 1 cup of orzo according to the packet. Then, drain it and toss with 1 tbsp olive oil and 1/4 tsp salt.
- In the same skillet, melt 1 tbsp of butter. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds . You'll know when it's fragrant.
- Pour in 1 cup chicken broth, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, 1/4 cup Parmesan, 1 tsp Italian seasoning and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes. Simmer for about 5 minutes . The sauce should thicken slightly.
- Slice the chicken and add it back to the sauce. Stir in the orzo.
- Serve immediately with fresh basil and more Parmesan.
Pro Tips
Pounding the chicken ensures it cooks evenly. Honestly, it’s a game changer! Don't overcook the orzo. Mushy orzo is nobody's friend.
The key to a great creamy tuscan chicken pasta is tasting and adjusting. Add more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon if needed.
Common mistake to avoid: Forgetting to drain the sun-dried tomatoes properly! You don’t want extra oil in the sauce, trust me. As Easy August Dinners go, this should be a breeze.
make-ahead option: You can make the sauce a day ahead. Just add the chicken and orzo when you're ready to serve.
It's one of those Easy Meals Chicken recipes that is also super versatile.
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo there you have it. I reckon this dish is just the ticket for a weeknight chicken dinner .
It's seriously one of my favourite easy healthy pasta dinner ideas.
Recipe Notes for the Best Ever Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo
Alright, let's dive into the nitty gritty of this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo, shall we? Honestly, these notes are the difference between a good dish and a fantastic dish.
I will tell you all my thoughts to help you get your dish into tip-top shape!
Serving Ideas: Plating and Perfect Pairings
Okay, plating time! For this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo, think rustic charm. A simple bowl works great. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a generous scattering of fresh basil makes it look top notch, You know? Garnish with a sprig of basil.
You could go fancy and serve it in individual ramekins. I think this is the best option.
This dish loves company. Some garlic bread is amazing to soak up the creamy sauce. A fresh side salad balances the richness.
For drinks? A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio. Or even just a glass of iced tea would be great.
Storage Savvy: Keeping It Fresh
Refrigeration: Got leftovers? Pop them in an airtight container and they will last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing: You can freeze this, but the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo sauce might change texture a bit. Freeze in a freezer safe container for up to 2 months .
When reheating, it's best to thaw it overnight. Adding a splash of chicken broth helps.
Reheating: Honestly, the microwave is your friend here. Heat until piping hot, but give it a stir to make sure.
You can also reheat it in a pan on the hob over medium heat, stirring frequently.
Adaptations: Making It Your Own
Dietary Tweaks: Okay, lets think about dietary tweaks. Vegetarian? Swap the chicken for mushrooms. dairy-free? Use coconut milk instead of cream. Just remember, full fat coconut milk for creaminess. Honestly it is delicious.
Seasonal Swaps: In the summer, try adding some fresh zucchini or bell peppers. In the winter, some spinach would be lovely.
Nutrition Snippets: Goodness in Every Bite
This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo is pretty balanced. You've got protein from the chicken. Carbs from the orzo, and some good fats from the cream and Parmesan.
Each serving has roughly 550 calories. Protein is about 40g, Fat is about 25g and Carbohydrates are about 40g. Its an Easy Healthy Comfort Food , you know? Nutritional values will vary slightly!
And there you have it! Now you’re armed with all the insider tips to make this Easy Healthy Pasta Dinner a roaring success.
Get creative, have fun, and most importantly, enjoy every delicious bite. Bon appétit, my friend! You got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo ahead of time? I'm a busy bee!
Absolutely! The orzo is best cooked fresh, but you can prepare the chicken and sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Store them separately in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, add the chicken, and then stir in freshly cooked orzo. Just like a Blue Peter make, a little prep goes a long way!
Help! My Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo sauce is too thick (or too thin)! What do I do?
No worries, easily fixed! If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more chicken broth to thin it out. If it's too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce, or whisk in a tiny bit of cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp cold water).
Remember, keep calm and carry on - even Mary Berry has off days!
I'm trying to cut back on calories, are there any healthier substitutions I can make to this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo?
Definitely! You can use half and-half instead of heavy cream to reduce the fat content, though the sauce won't be quite as rich. Also, whole wheat orzo is a great way to add extra fiber.
You could also consider using chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavour, but remember they have a higher fat content, so it’s a bit of a swings and roundabouts situation!
Can I freeze leftover Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo?
While you can freeze it, the orzo might become a bit softer upon thawing. For best results, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to restore the creamy consistency.
It won't be exactly as good as fresh, but it's still a tasty option for a quick meal - a bit like a ready meal, but way better!
What's the best way to store sun-dried tomatoes after opening the jar?
Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil should always be stored in the refrigerator once opened. Make sure the tomatoes are fully submerged in the oil to prevent them from drying out or spoiling. They'll typically last for several weeks this way, but always check for any signs of mold or off smells before using them.
Remember, a little bit of TLC goes a long way!
I don't have Parmesan cheese on hand. Can I substitute it with something else for this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo?
Absolutely! A good substitute would be Pecorino Romano cheese, which has a similar salty and savory flavor. You could also use Asiago cheese. If you're really in a pinch, a hard, aged cheddar could also work, though the flavor will be noticeably different. Experiment a little cooking should be fun, not a chore!
Creamy Sundried Tomato Chicken Orzo
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 550 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 0g |