Description
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups baby spinach
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the
chicken is lightly browned.
Stir in the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Add the orzo, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo begins to soften.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese, baby spinach, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until the spinach wilts.
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Kcal: 450 kcal per serving | Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped: chicken cut, garlic minced, and sun-dried tomatoes chopped. Use a 10-12 inch oven-safe skillet. After browning the seasoned chicken in step 2, ensure no pink remains before proceeding. When adding the orzo in step 4, stir continuously for one minute to lightly toast it in the cream mixture, which deepens the flavor. During the oven bake, check at the 12-minute mark. The dish is ready when the top is golden and the sauce is thickened around the edges.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy orzo bake is a complete meal but pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a heartier dinner, serve with crusty garlic bread or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese just before serving.
How-to Summary
In summary, this is a one-pan, oven-to-table recipe. Brown chicken in an oven-safe skillet, build a creamy sauce with broth, cream, and orzo, wilt in spinach, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly. The key stages are: sauté, simmer, stir in greens and cheese, then bake.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta? Yes, small pasta like ditalini or small shells work, but cooking times may vary. Avoid long pasta shapes.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Assemble the dish up to the point before baking, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream? For a lighter version, use half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich. Full-fat coconut milk is a dairy-free alternative.
My orzo is still hard after baking, what happened? The liquid may have evaporated too quickly. Ensure you use the correct skillet size and bring to only a gentle simmer before baking. You can add 1/4 cup more broth before baking if needed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using a skillet that is not oven-safe. Check your skillet’s handle rating before placing it in the oven.
- Overcooking the chicken in the initial browning step, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Adding the spinach with the initial liquids. It must be stirred in just before baking to prevent it from becoming slimy.
- Not letting the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking. This allows the sauce to thicken properly for serving.
Conclusion
This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo Bake is the ultimate comfort food, combining rich flavors and textures in one simple skillet. Its straightforward method yields an impressive, family-friendly meal perfect for both weeknights and casual entertaining. Mastering the few key techniques outlined will ensure a deliciously creamy, cheesy, and satisfying result every time.