Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo Recipe

Imagine a meal that brings together tender, seasoned chicken breast tenderloins with the luscious creaminess of a rich sauce, punctuated by the bold, tangy punch of sun-dried tomatoes. That’s exactly what you get with this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo, a dish that’s as comforting as it is vibrant. The orzo pasta becomes beautifully infused with savory chicken stock and fresh spinach, creating a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend feast, this recipe delivers deliciousness every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, textures, and color. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the dish’s brightness and creaminess to come forward, making every bite a delight.

• 1 lb chicken breast tenderloins: Tender and perfect for quick cooking, providing the hearty protein base.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Used for searing the chicken, adding a silky, rich flavor.
• 1 tsp paprika: Adds warm smokiness and subtle depth to the chicken seasoning.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Infuses classic herb notes to complement the tomato and cream flavors.
• ¼ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors without overwhelming them.
• ¼ tsp black pepper: Gives a gentle spicy kick to balance richness.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and orzo, packing in complexity.
• 5 cloves garlic, minced: Offers an irresistible savory aroma and punch.
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: The star ingredient providing tangy, concentrated tomato flavor.
• 1 cup orzo, uncooked: A pasta that’s quick to cook and perfectly absorbs the creamy sauce.
• 2 cups chicken stock: Gives the orzo moisture and richness with savory depth.
• ¼ tsp salt: Added to balance the orzo cooking liquid for a perfectly seasoned finish.
• 4 oz fresh spinach: Adds freshness and a pop of vibrant green while boosting nutrition.
• ½ cup heavy cream: Creates that indulgently creamy texture that makes this dish so comforting.
• 1 tbsp dried basil: Brings a fragrant herbal note that pairs beautifully with tomato and cream.
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes: A subtle hint of heat that awakens the dish without overpowering it.
• 2 tbsp grated parmesan: Sprinkled on top to add umami richness and a delightful finish.

How to Make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil warms up, season the chicken breast tenderloins generously with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces, searing them for 3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust and the seasonings are perfectly infusing the meat. This initial sear locks in the juices, setting the stage for tender, flavorful bites in the final dish.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Orzo

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside for now. Add one tablespoon of olive oil to the same pan, then toss in the minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and the uncooked orzo pasta. Stir continuously as you roast the orzo for about 2 minutes. This toast step is crucial — it enhances the nutty flavor of the orzo and blends beautifully with the savory punch of garlic and the concentrated tang of the tomatoes.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo in Chicken Stock

Pour in the chicken stock and add a quarter teaspoon of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover the skillet with a lid. Let the orzo simmer for 5 to 8 minutes until it softens and absorbs most of the flavorful broth, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This technique transforms the orzo into a tender, luscious base for your creamy chicken mixture.

Step 4: Wilt in the Spinach

Once the orzo has softened, stir in the fresh spinach. Continue mixing for about 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach wilts down completely, adding a fresh, vibrant green to the dish. This not only boosts the nutritional value but also contributes a lovely mild bitterness that perfectly offsets the rich creaminess that’s coming next.

Step 5: Add Cream and Seasonings

Pour the heavy cream into the skillet, followed by the dried basil and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine all the flavors. The cream envelops the orzo and vegetables in a silky coat, while the basil offers herbal brightness and the red pepper flakes gently lift the dish with a subtle kick. This is where the magic of Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo truly comes alive.

Step 6: Return the Chicken and Simmer

Put the seared chicken back into the pan, nestling it into the creamy orzo mixture. Cover the skillet and let everything simmer together for another 2 to 5 minutes. This final simmer allows the chicken to finish cooking through and soak up some of the luscious sauce. When you remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle the grated parmesan on top for that irresistible umami finish that ties the dish together beautifully.

How to Serve Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo

Garnishes

For the perfect finishing touch, sprinkle fresh basil or chopped parsley over the top to introduce a fresh herbal note and an appealing burst of green color. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few shavings of parmesan cheese can add an elegant richness and depth to your serving. These simple garnishes elevate the dish to restaurant-quality presentation.

Side Dishes

This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo is already a complete, hearty meal but pairs wonderfully with a fresh, crisp side salad dressed in a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts add a lovely crunch and balance. A warm crusty bread or garlic bread also makes for excellent dipping vessels to soak up every bit of the creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the dish in shallow bowls for a rustic, welcoming vibe, letting the creamy orzo and tender chicken shine front and center. For a more elegant meal, portion the orzo around stacked chicken tenderloins and garnish each plate individually, making it feel extra special. You can even spoon it into small ramekins for an appetizer-sized portion at dinner parties, where its flavor-packed creaminess will impress every guest.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers that are just as delicious, if not more so, than the day you make it. Just be sure to let the dish cool before sealing the container to maintain the best texture.

Freezing

This dish is freezer-friendly, but for best quality, freeze it without the heavy cream and parmesan on top, as dairy can separate when frozen. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat, then stir in a splash of cream or sprinkle fresh parmesan to bring back the luscious creaminess.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to revive the creamy texture. If needed, add a splash of chicken stock or cream to loosen the sauce. The dish reheats well in the microwave too, just cover and heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warmth and creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast tenderloins?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more richness and remain juicy after cooking. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may need a bit longer to cook through depending on their size.

Is there a vegetarian version of Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and substitute vegetable broth for chicken stock. You can add hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or chickpeas to maintain the protein and heartiness.

What type of sun-dried tomatoes should I use?

Use sun-dried tomatoes stored in oil for the best flavor and texture. They impart more richness and moisture than the dry-packed kind, which can be too tough for this creamy dish.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Definitely. Swap heavy cream for coconut cream or a creamy non-dairy milk like cashew or oat milk, and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan to keep that cheesy depth. The dish will still be creamy and delicious.

How spicy is the dish with the red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth that enhances the flavor without overpowering the dish. If you prefer less heat, feel free to reduce or omit them entirely.

Final Thoughts

Here’s the truth: once you make this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo, it’s going to become one of those meals you rely on for both comfort and wow-factor. It’s creamy, it’s vibrant, and it pulls together with simple ingredients that don’t ask for much but deliver so much joy. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, give this recipe a try and watch how it quickly earns a spot on your favorites list!

Print