Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon
A vibrant plate featuring golden-brown Tuscan chicken pieces atop a bed of tender orzo pasta, garnished with fresh herbs, cherry tomatoes, and a creamy sauce, styled on a white rustic plate with a sprinkling of parmesan and basil leaves for a cozy, inviting appearance.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Orzo Bake for Perfect Weeknight Dinner

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A rich and creamy baked chicken dish featuring orzo pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and herbs all cooked together in a luscious sauce.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then sear until golden brown on both sides. Transfer to a baking dish.
  3. In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add sun-dried tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, and spinach; cook until spinach wilts.
  4. Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing to a simmer. Pour the mixture over the chicken.
  5. Add orzo around the chicken in the baking dish.
  6. Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes until chicken is cooked through and orzo is tender.
  7. Remove from oven, garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve hot.

Notes

  • Use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for richer flavor.
  • Can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
  • For extra flavor, sprinkle with grated Parmesan before serving.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Method: Baking, Searing, Simmering
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Comfort Food

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 560 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 720 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 40 g
  • Cholesterol: 125 mg