This creamy sun-dried tomato chicken orzo is a rich, comforting dish that comes together in 30 minutes. Packed with 40g of protein per serving, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that combines tender seared chicken, flavorful sun-dried tomatoes, and a velvety cream sauce. If you’re looking for a one-pan dinner that’s both satisfying and easy to make, this recipe is for you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • High in protein – 40g per bowl for a satisfying meal.
  • One-pan meal – Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
  • Easy & quick – Ready in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 1 lb chicken breast tenderloins
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Orzo & Sauce

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 cup orzo, uncooked
  • 2 cups chicken stock
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 4 oz fresh spinach
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp dried basil
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan

Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add the chicken breast tenderloins and season with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.

  • Sear for 3 minutes per side until golden brown (6 minutes total).
  • Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Toast the Orzo

In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil, followed by garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and orzo.

  • Stir and toast the orzo for 2 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

Pour in the chicken stock and add salt. Bring to a boil.

  • Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Add Spinach & Cream

Once the orzo is tender, stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted (2-3 minutes).

  • Pour in heavy cream, add dried basil and red pepper flakes, and stir well.

Step 5: Simmer with Chicken

Return the seared chicken to the skillet and cover.

  • Let it simmer for 2-5 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and heated through.

Step 6: Finish & Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle with grated Parmesan. Serve hot.

Expert Tips & Variations

  • For a lower-carb option, swap orzo for cauliflower rice or shirataki rice.
  • Make it dairy-free by using coconut cream instead of heavy cream and skipping the Parmesan.
  • Want extra crispy chicken? After searing, finish it in a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes while the orzo cooks.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving – 13 oz Bowl)

  • Calories: 618
  • Protein: 40g
  • Carbs: 54g
  • Fat: 27g
  • Fiber: 4.6g