Lunch & Dinner

One Skillet Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken And Orzo Recipe – Hearty Food Ideas

Name: One Skillet Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken And Orzo Recipe – Hearty Food Ideas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs; 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta; 2 tablespoons high-quality extra virgin olive oil; 2 teaspoons creamy Dijon mustard; 1/3 cup dry white wine; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 of Juice fresh lemon; 2 cups tender baby spinach leaves; 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes; 1 medium shallot, finely chopped; 1 cup heavy cream or double cream; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, well-drained and chopped; 1 teaspoon sweet smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil or parsley; 2 cloves garlic, minced or finely grated; 1 teaspoon dried Mediterranean oregano

Glennis Annis June 30, 2025

Servings: 6 Total Time: 45 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Before we dive into the delectable depths of the One Skillet Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken and Orzo recipe, let’s talk about what you can pair with this incredible dish. Think about a fresh, crisp salad to cut through the creamy richness.

A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette can provide that perfect contrast. If you want to stay with the Italian theme, bruschetta topped with tomatoes and fresh basil can add brightness to your dinner table.

Red wine, like a nice Chianti or a light Pinot Grigio, will complement the flavors beautifully. You might even consider serving some garlic bread on the side—who could resist that?

One Skillet Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken And Orzo Recipe

What is One Skillet Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken and Orzo?

At its core, One Skillet Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken and Orzo is a luscious dish combining tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, creamy sauce, and orzo pasta. What sets it apart from other chicken pasta recipes is how all the flavors meld together in one pan, eliminating the stress of multiple pots and pans—yes, please!

The orzo absorbs all the rich flavors while becoming perfectly al dente. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl. Each bite bursts with the savory taste of garlic, the slight tang of sun-dried tomatoes, and just a hint of spice to make your taste buds sing.

Why You’ll Love this One Skillet Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken and Orzo Recipe

This One Skillet dish makes weeknight dinners feel special without requiring hours in the kitchen. Here’s a closer look at why you’re going to fall head over heels for this recipe:

1. Simplicity: Let’s face it; cooking can often feel overwhelming. This recipe simplifies the process by requiring only one skillet. It minimizes the mess and maximizes the flavor without sacrificing quality.

2. Speed: In under 30 minutes, you can whip up a spectacular meal. This is a game-changer when you have family or friends to impress—and don’t want to spend the whole evening in the kitchen.

3. Customization: One of my favorite aspects is its versatility. You can easily adapt the ingredients according to your preferences. Want to toss in some zucchini or bell peppers? Go for it!

4. Flavor Explosion: From the first bite, you’ll understand what I’m talking about. The creaminess, paired with the tang of sun-dried tomatoes and subtle heat from spices, creates an unforgettable experience.

5. Meal Prep Friendly: This dish keeps well in the fridge, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep. Just warm it up, and you’re good to go!

These aspects make this dish not just appealing, but irresistible. You won’t just love making it; you’ll love sharing it with others, too.

The Ingredients You Will Need To Make One Skillet Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken and Orzo

Ingredients are the backbone of any recipe. Each item in this dish contributes significantly to the overall flavor and richness. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs: Provides the protein backbone of the dish.
1 cup uncooked orzo pasta: This tiny pasta shape soaks up flavors beautifully.
2 tablespoons high-quality extra virgin olive oil: A key element for flavor and mouthfeel.
2 teaspoons creamy Dijon mustard: Adds depth and a tangy bite.
1/3 cup dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio): A splash for richness.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Because butter makes everything better!
Juice of 1 fresh lemon: For brightness.
2 cups tender baby spinach leaves: Adds nutrition without weighing the dish down.
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes: Adjust according to your spice preference.
1 medium shallot, finely chopped: For a sweet and mild onion flavor.
1 cup heavy cream or double cream: The star player in this creamy sauce.
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, well-drained and chopped: For that signature rich flavor.
1 teaspoon sweet smoked paprika: Introduces a comforting, smoky undertone.
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: For a hint of warmth.
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Basics that enhance all flavors.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil or parsley: Freshness on top adds color and flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced or finely grated: For that aromatic punch.
1 teaspoon dried Mediterranean oregano: Herbiness that ties it all together.

One Skillet Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken And Orzo Copycat Recipe

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by seasoning the chicken with salt and black pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. Don’t worry about any bits stuck to the bottom; they will add flavor to your dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Shallots and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the butter. Once melted, add the chopped shallot and cook until soft, about 3 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic, and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Keep an eye on it, cooking garlic too long can turn it bitter.

Step 3: Deglaze and Add the Orzo

Pour in the white wine, scraping the bottom of the skillet to lift all those flavorful bits. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for a minute. Now, add the orzo to the skillet along with 2 cups of chicken stock or water. Stir to combine all ingredients well.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow the orzo to cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until it is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid. If necessary, add more stock or water to ensure the orzo doesn’t dry out.

Step 5: Make it Creamy

Once the orzo is cooked, return the chicken to the skillet. Pour in the heavy cream, lemon juice, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, Dijon mustard, paprika, and nutmeg. Stir everything together gently, allowing the spinach to wilt and everything to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Final Touches

Let it all simmer for another couple of minutes to meld the flavors. Taste and adjust seasonings, adding more salt or red pepper flakes as desired. Remove from the heat and sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top before serving.

Notes

Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience:

Ingredient Quality Matters: Choose high-quality olive oil. A good brand can elevate the flavor of your dish dramatically.
Watch the Heat: Keep an eye on the skillet heat while cooking. Too high, and you risk burning; too low, and your orzo may become mushy.
Storage: If you plan to store, allow the dish to cool before transferring to an airtight container.
Extra Flavor: A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese just before serving can add a lovely touch.
Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh herbs and ingredients. They can make a significant difference.

Storage Tips

This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or stock to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. I recommend consuming it fresh for the best flavors, but the leftovers make for great lunch options.

Nutrition Information

While this dish is creamy and satisfying, it’s also packed with nutrients. Here’s a general breakdown:

Calories: Approximately 580 per serving
Protein: 40g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving this delightful dish, consider these five suggestions:

1. Fresh Arugula Salad: A light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the creaminess of the chicken and orzo.
2. Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce; who can resist that?
3. Roasted Vegetables: Serve a side of seasonal roasted veggies to add color and nutrients.
4. Wine Pairing: A glass of crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio will complement the dish beautifully.
5. Herb Garnish: A sprinkle of additional fresh herbs (even more basil or parsley) just before serving makes for a stunning presentation.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in One Skillet Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken and Orzo?

Feel free to get creative with your ingredients! Here are five great substitutes:

1. Quinoa for Orzo: For a gluten-free option, replace orzo with quinoa. It cooks quickly and provides a hearty texture.
2. White Beans for Chicken: For a vegetarian version, use white beans instead of chicken for protein.
3. Zucchini Noodles for Orzo: If you’re looking for a low-carb alternative, spiralize zucchini instead of using orzo.
4. Canned Artichokes: If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in chopped canned artichokes for added flavor and texture.
5. Greek Yogurt Instead of Cream: For a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt in place of heavy cream. It will still provide creaminess while lowering the calories.

Best One Skillet Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken And Orzo Recipe

Conclusion

This One Skillet Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken and Orzo recipe is truly the comfort food upgrade you didn’t know you needed. Its simplicity, flavor, and quick preparation make it an ideal choice for weeknight meals—especially when you want to impress without the hassle.

With just a few pantry staples, you can create something that feels both indulgent and wholesome. So go ahead, give it a shot, and watch your family and friends rave about this delightful dish. Who knows? You might find it becoming a regular feature on your dinner table, and that’s just fine by me! Happy cooking!

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Print Recipe

One Skillet Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken And Orzo Recipe – Hearty Food Ideas

Author: Glennis Annis Cuisine: Italian Courses: Lunch & Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 30 mins Total Time 45 mins

Servings: 6 Calories: 450 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Hello fellow food lovers! I’m thrilled to share with you a recipe that has quickly become a staple in my kitchen: the One Skillet Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken and Orzo. If you're anything like me, balancing a hectic schedule with a love for good food can be a challenge. That's why I'm here—guided by the goal of transforming busy weeknights into deliciously simple experiences. This dish has it all: creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor, all cooked in one skillet. So, grab your apron (and maybe a glass of wine) as we embark on this culinary journey!