If you are searching for a comforting, delicious one-pan meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome, this Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken Recipe is here to brighten up your dinner table. This dish combines tender chicken pieces with velvety, tomato-infused orzo pasta, all enveloped in a luxuriously creamy sauce that’s bursting with flavor. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that comes together quickly but tastes like you spent hours crafting it. Plus, the balance of creamy, tangy, and mildly spiced notes makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color, yet the list remains refreshingly simple. These essentials work together to create a rich, creamy base, a hearty protein element, and a touch of warmth and aroma that makes every bite memorable.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the chicken for deeper flavor.
- Chicken breast, diced: Provides lean protein and juicy texture.
- Small onion, chopped: Brings sweetness and depth to the saute base.
- Garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth.
- Orzo pasta: A delightful rice-shaped pasta that absorbs the sauce beautifully.
- Chicken broth: Builds savory flavor and moistens the orzo while cooking.
- Heavy cream: Creates the luscious, velvety texture central to this recipe.
- Tomato sauce: Adds vibrant color and tanginess to balance the creaminess.
- Dried basil: Offers herbal freshness for a Mediterranean touch.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Introduce a gentle, optional heat that enlivens the palate.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and unlocking all the flavors.
How to Make Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast and cook it until each piece is nicely browned and cooked through, which usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. Browning the chicken not only locks in flavor but also adds a lovely texture contrast to the creamy orzo later. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside so it doesn’t overcook.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, the next step is to build your flavor foundation. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them gently until they soften and become fragrant—about 3 minutes. This mix of sweet onion and aromatic garlic sets the stage for the sauce, ensuring a rich, savory base that complements the cream and tomato perfectly.
Step 3: Combine Orzo and Liquid Ingredients
Now for the heart of the dish. Stir in the orzo pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, and tomato sauce to the skillet. Add dried basil and crushed red pepper flakes if you like that subtle hint of spice. Mix everything well and bring it all to a simmer. This mixture will soon transform into the creamy, tomato-infused sauce that defines this recipe.
Step 4: Cook Orzo Until Tender
Cover the skillet and let the orzo cook gently for 10 to 12 minutes. Stir it occasionally so the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom and the sauce thickens evenly. You’ll know it’s ready when the orzo is tender but still slightly al dente, and most of the liquid has been absorbed, leaving behind a creamy, flavorful sauce that clings to each tiny pasta grain.
Step 5: Return Chicken to Skillet
Once your orzo has reached perfect tenderness, return the browned chicken pieces to the skillet. Stir everything together to warm the chicken through and evenly distribute the flavors. Finish by seasoning the dish with salt and freshly ground pepper to suit your taste.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Your Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken Recipe is ready to serve hot from the skillet. If you like, sprinkle extra dried basil or a handful of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top to add a final layer of flavor and an inviting appearance.
How to Serve Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes really elevate this dish. A sprinkle of bright, fresh basil or parsley can add a burst of color and fresh herbaceous notes. Grated Parmesan cheese brings a salty, umami-rich charm that melts wonderfully into the creamy sauce as you eat.
Side Dishes
This comforting main works well alongside light, crisp salads such as arugula with lemon vinaigrette or a simple cucumber and tomato salad. Roasted or steamed green vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans add a nice contrast to the creamy texture and round out the meal nutritionally.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken Recipe in small, individual ramekins or hollowed-out bell peppers. You could also layer it in a shallow casserole dish and top with breadcrumbs and extra cheese, then broil it quickly for a crispy gratin finish—transforming weeknight dinner into an elegant affair!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The orzo may absorb some sauce over time, so you might want to stir in a splash of broth or cream before reheating to restore its creamy consistency.
Freezing
While orzo tends to change texture slightly when frozen, you can still freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe containers, and separate portions for convenience. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Reheating
The best way to reheat is slowly on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. This helps maintain that creamy, fresh-from-the-stove texture. Microwaving works too, but be sure to stir often and add liquid as required to prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo?
Absolutely! While orzo is perfect for soaking up the creamy tomato sauce, small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or Israeli couscous will work nicely as alternatives. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the pasta is tender.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative to keep the dish dairy-free. This will alter the flavor slightly but will keep the luscious texture intact.
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Definitely! Shrimp or turkey breast can be great alternatives. Just be sure to adjust the cooking timing, as shrimp cooks much faster, while turkey requires similar timing to chicken.
How spicy is the dish with the red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that is mild and not overpowering. You can always omit them if you prefer a completely mild and creamy flavor profile.
Can I prepare this Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken Recipe in advance?
You can prep the ingredients ahead of time and even cook the chicken in advance, then assemble and cook the orzo just before serving to keep everything fresh and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken Recipe is a gem for anyone looking for a quick yet indulgent meal with layers of flavor and comforting textures. It’s a recipe that feels special but requires minimal fuss, making it an all-time favorite to keep on your dinner rotation. I hope you give it a try and enjoy every creamy, tomato-kissed bite as much as I do!
Print
Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken is a quick and comforting one-pan meal combining tender chicken, orzo pasta, and a rich tomato cream sauce infused with garlic and basil. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, it comes together in just 25 minutes and serves four.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Pantry Items
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6 to 8 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until they become fragrant and softened, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add Liquids and Orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta followed by chicken broth, heavy cream, tomato sauce, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Mix everything well and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Simmer the Orzo: Cover the skillet and let it cook on medium-low heat for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cook until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, forming a creamy sauce.
- Combine Chicken and Season: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir into the creamy orzo mixture. Season with salt and pepper to your taste, heating through for a minute or two.
- Serve: Serve the creamy tomato orzo hot, optionally garnished with additional dried basil or freshly grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the crushed red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Using fresh basil instead of dried will add a brighter flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- For a vegetarian option, omit chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
