Tuscan Chicken Orzo

A creamy, comforting one-pan meal packed with protein, vegetables, and Mediterranean-inspired flavour.

Why You'll Love It

This Tuscan Chicken Orzo is one of those meals that feels like comfort food while still supporting your wellness goals. Tender chicken, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and a light creamy sauce come together with orzo for an easy weeknight dinner that's satisfying without feeling heavy.

✔ High in protein

✔ One-pan meal

✔ Family-friendly

✔ Great for leftovers

✔ Ready in about 30 minutes

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, diced

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

  • ½ tsp garlic powder

  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Orzo

  • 1 cup dry orzo

  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

  • 1 cup baby spinach

  • ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

  • ½ cup light cream or evaporated milk

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnish

  • Fresh basil

  • Extra Parmesan

  • Red pepper flakes

Instructions

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Season chicken with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Cook for 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through.

Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 2

Add dry orzo to the skillet and toast for 1 minute.

Pour in chicken broth and stir.

Bring to a gentle simmer.

Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3

Once the orzo is nearly tender, stir in:

  • spinach

  • sun-dried tomatoes

  • cream

  • Parmesan

Cook another 2–3 minutes until creamy.

Step 4

Return chicken to the skillet.

Stir to combine and heat through.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

GEN Tip

Looking to boost the vegetables?

Add mushrooms, zucchini, broccoli, or chopped kale while the orzo cooks.

Small additions can make a big difference without changing the flavour you love.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

  • A simple green salad

  • Roasted vegetables

  • Extra spinach folded into the orzo

  • Fresh lemon wedges for brightness

Nutrition Notes

This meal provides a balanced combination of:

✓ Protein from chicken

✓ Fibre and nutrients from spinach and vegetables

✓ Carbohydrates for energy

✓ Healthy fats from olive oil

No calorie counting. No perfection required. Just a nourishing meal that fits into real life.

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