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Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo

A 30-minute, high-protein, one-pan meal with juicy chicken simmered in creamy garlic and sun-dried tomato sauce with tender orzo and wilted spinach.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 618
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken breast tenderloins
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for sauteing
  • 5 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped, oil-packed
  • 1 cup orzo uncooked
  • 2 cups chicken stock
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 4 oz fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 2 tablespoons grated parmesan

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  2. Season the chicken with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper on both sides.
  3. Sear chicken for 3 minutes on each side until golden brown, then remove from skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil, then stir in minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and uncooked orzo.
  5. Toast orzo for 2 minutes while stirring constantly to develop nutty flavor.
  6. Pour in chicken stock and 1/4 teaspoon salt, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and cover.
  7. Cook for 5 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender but still has a slight bite.
  8. Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 to 3 minutes.
  9. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream, dried basil, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
  10. Return chicken to the pan and simmer for 2 to 5 minutes until heated through.
  11. Top with grated parmesan before serving.
Etekcity Food Kitchen Scale - Kitchen Equipment Recommendation

Notes

Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for best flavor. Substitute gluten-free orzo for a gluten-free version. Coconut cream works as a dairy-free substitute. Stir orzo often to prevent sticking. Reheats beautifully for meal prep.
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