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Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 46 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • 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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/creamy-tomato-orzo-with-chicken-recipe/