If you’re on the hunt for a comforting dinner that feels both indulgent and light, this Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken Recipe is absolutely the answer. It combines tender pieces of chicken with luscious, slightly tangy tomato sauce and a dreamy creaminess that wraps around every tiny orzo grain. What’s better than a one-pot meal that cooks up in under 30 minutes and delivers big on flavor and satisfaction? This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for weeknights or cozy weekends when you crave something special but simple.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role, balancing flavors and textures to create that perfect harmony you want in a creamy tomato dinner. The simplicity of the list ensures you don’t need a pantry full of fancy things, just fresh basics that come together beautifully.
- Olive oil: This adds a rich base for sautéing and a subtle fruity note that enhances the chicken’s flavor.
- Chicken breast, diced: Lean and tender protein that absorbs all the delicious sauce perfectly.
- Small onion, chopped: Brings sweetness and depth to the dish when softened.
- Garlic, minced: Adds aromatic warmth and a pungent kick.
- Orzo pasta: Tiny pasta that cooks quickly and offers a comforting texture that’s ideal for creamy dishes.
- Chicken broth: Provides savory liquid foundation, enriching the orzo as it cooks.
- Heavy cream: The star of creaminess, it makes the sauce luscious and smooth.
- Tomato sauce: Adds brightness and tang to balance the cream.
- Dried basil: Infuses a subtle herbal scent and flavor, elevating the tomato base.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): A little heat to awaken the palate if you want to spice things up.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to round out all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your diced chicken and cook until each piece is nicely browned and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. This step seals in the juices and forms a flavorful crust that makes every bite satisfying. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside — you’ll bring it back later for the magic to continue.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Using the same skillet (with all those lovely brown bits still in there), toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir and cook until they become fragrant and tender, about 3 minutes. This foundation adds layers of savory sweetness and aromatic complexity to the dish.
Step 3: Combine the Orzo and Sauces
Next, add the orzo pasta along with chicken broth, heavy cream, tomato sauce, dried basil, and if you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Stir everything together thoroughly, coating the orzo with all those rich and tangy liquids, then bring the whole skillet to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Cook Until Tender
Cover your skillet and let it cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. During this time, the orzo will absorb the beautiful sauce, becoming tender and flavorful while the cream and tomato meld into a silky coating.
Step 5: Add Back the Chicken
Return the browned chicken pieces into the skillet and stir everything together. Season the dish with salt and pepper according to your taste. This final step brings all the key ingredients together, ensuring each bite is full of that creamy tomato goodness balanced by juicy chicken.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Serve your Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken piping hot, and optionally top it with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to add brightness and a salty punch. This dish shines best when eaten immediately, while the creaminess is at its dreamiest.
How to Serve Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil or parsley adds a pop of bright green and fresh herbal notes that contrast the rich sauce beautifully. A generous grate of Parmesan cheese brings a sweet, nutty layer that melts slightly into the warmth of the dish, elevating every forkful.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess, or roasted vegetables such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts for added texture and nutrients. Garlic bread also makes an excellent side to soak up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming dinner party touch, spoon the creamy orzo into shallow bowls and top with a sprig of fresh herbs and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. You can also serve it alongside a lemon wedge for an optional zesty contrast, or incorporate sun-dried tomatoes for bursts of intense sweetness and color.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will mellow and deepen overnight, making for a tasty next-day meal.
Freezing
Creamy dishes like this one can be frozen but tend to change texture slightly due to the dairy. To freeze, cool completely then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to restore the saucy texture. Avoid using high heat to prevent separating or curdling of the cream.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
Absolutely! While orzo offers a lovely small shape that melds well into the creamy sauce, you can swap it for other small pasta like acini di pepe or even tiny shells. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a creamy plant-based milk (like cashew milk) and make sure your tomato sauce doesn’t contain dairy. The texture won’t be 100% the same, but it will still be delicious.
Can I use leftover cooked chicken?
Definitely! Just add the pre-cooked chicken during the last few minutes of cooking the orzo to warm it through without drying it out.
How spicy is this recipe with red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper flakes add just a mild kick that brings a bit of warmth without overpowering the dish. You can always leave them out or increase the amount depending on your spice preference.
What wine pairs well with Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken Recipe?
A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully, balancing the richness of the cream and enhancing the tomato’s acidity. For red lovers, a light-bodied Chianti works nicely too.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something incredibly comforting about this Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken Recipe. It’s a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, savory, and just a touch of spice, all in one pot that cooks up quickly and effortlessly. Whether you’re feeding family or impressing friends, this dish will charm its way onto your repeat dinner list. I can’t wait for you to make it and feel that same cozy satisfaction with every spoonful.
Print
Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken is a comforting and flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender diced chicken, orzo pasta cooked in a rich tomato and cream sauce, infused with garlic, onion, and herbs. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that combines protein, pasta, and savory sauce in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and softened, about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Add the orzo pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, tomato sauce, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Simmer and Cook Orzo: Cover the skillet and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the orzo is tender and the liquid has been mostly absorbed into a creamy sauce.
- Combine Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine all ingredients. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Serve: Serve the creamy tomato orzo hot, optionally garnished with additional dried basil or freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter dish, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Adding crushed red pepper flakes is optional but adds a subtle spicy kick that complements the tomato flavor.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- If orzo absorbs too much liquid before it’s fully cooked, add a splash more broth or water to keep it creamy.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove or microwave.
