Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken: Easy Weeknight Meal (Print Version)
Quick Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken is a simple, flavorful weeknight dinner. Tender chicken and pasta in a rich tomato cream sauce ready in under 30 minutes.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ The Hearty Foundation
01 -
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 -
1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
→ Aromatic Essentials
03 -
2 tbsp olive oil
04 -
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
05 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
06 -
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
07 -
1/2 tsp black pepper
08 -
Salt, to taste
→ The Velvety Tomato Embrace
09 -
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
10 -
2 tbsp tomato paste
11 -
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
12 -
1/2 cup heavy cream
13 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Fresh Finishes
14 -
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Cut 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. Season with salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
02 -
In the same skillet, add 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened. Add 4 cloves garlic, minced, and 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning. Cook for another minute until fragrant, stirring constantly.
03 -
Stir in 2 tbsp tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, scraping up any browned bits. Pour in 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes and 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, ensuring a rich base for your Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken – Easy Weeknight Dinner.
04 -
Add 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta to the simmering sauce. Stir well to combine. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
05 -
Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix thoroughly. Taste and adjust salt as needed for the perfect Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken – Easy Weeknight Dinner.
06 -
Remove the skillet from heat. Let the Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken – Easy Weeknight Dinner rest for a couple of minutes to thicken slightly. Divide among serving bowls and garnish generously with 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped, before serving.
# Notes:
01 -
For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. You can add a can of drained cannellini beans or chickpeas for protein.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen.
03 -
Don't overcook the orzo! It will continue to absorb liquid and soften slightly after you remove it from the heat, so aim for al dente.
04 -
A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette or some crusty bread would complement this dish beautifully.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet or Dutch oven
02 -
Cutting board
03 -
Chef's knife
04 -
Measuring cups and spoons
05 -
Wooden spoon or spatula
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 780 kcal
Total Fat: 31 g
Total Carbohydrate: 64 g
Protein: 57 g