If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you absolutely must try this Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken Recipe. It perfectly balances tender chicken, luscious tomato-infused cream, and tiny orzo pasta pearls that soak up all those comforting flavors. This recipe is easy enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to impress anyone you serve it to. With every bite, you get a silky texture paired with the subtle kick of herbs, making it a go-to meal that’s both satisfying and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the right ingredients is half the joy of cooking this dish. Each element plays a unique role, from the creamy richness to the fresh, savory notes that brighten the whole plate.
- Olive oil: This is your cooking base; it adds a subtle fruitiness and helps brown the chicken beautifully.
- Chicken breast, diced: Tender and lean, chicken breast is the protein hero here, providing a hearty bite.
- Small onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed to golden perfection.
- Garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with an irresistible aromatic punch.
- Orzo pasta: These tiny pasta grains absorb flavors effortlessly, creating that dreamy creamy texture.
- Chicken broth: Builds a rich base and keeps the orzo moist and flavorful as it cooks.
- Heavy cream: The magic ingredient that brings the lush, velvety quality every bite needs.
- Tomato sauce: Imparts tangy sweetness and that beautiful red color to the dish.
- Dried basil: Brings a subtle herbal earthiness that complements the tomatoes.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): A little heat for those who like a mild kick.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
How to Make Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced chicken breasts and cook until they’re beautifully browned and cooked through, which usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. Browning the chicken creates a flavorful crust that adds depth to your Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken Recipe. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to keep warm.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
In the same skillet, without cleaning it out, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these until they become soft and fragrant—about 3 minutes. This step builds a wonderful flavor base by softening the onions’ natural sweetness and letting the garlic release its aroma.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients and Simmer
Now it’s time to add the orzo pasta right into the skillet with the softened onion and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, tomato sauce, dried basil, and if you like a bit of a spicy edge, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes. Stir everything together well and bring it to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic happens as the flavors start mingling and the orzo begins to plump up.
Step 4: Cook Until Perfectly Tender
Cover the skillet and let the mixture cook for 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and check that the orzo becomes tender and has absorbed most of the flavorful liquids. This slow cooked step ensures every bite is creamy and perfectly textured.
Step 5: Add Chicken Back In
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix it into the creamy tomato orzo. Season everything with salt and pepper to your taste, letting all components harmonize in one pot.
Step 6: Serve Hot and Enjoy
Serve your creamy creation hot from the skillet, and feel free to sprinkle on some fresh basil or a bit of Parmesan cheese for an added flavor boost. This final touch really elevates the dish and makes it feel like a restaurant-worthy meal right at home.
How to Serve Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can take your Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken Recipe from lovely to unforgettable. Try fresh basil leaves for a bright, herbal aroma or a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan for a salty, nutty kick. A few cracks of black pepper or a drizzle of good olive oil right before serving also adds extra richness and flavor dimension.
Side Dishes
This dish is fantastic on its own, but pairing it with something fresh and crunchy creates a delightful balance. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts works beautifully. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is also great for soaking up any creamy sauce left on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, serve the creamy tomato orzo in shallow bowls topped with microgreens or a few sun-dried tomatoes. You can also portion it into mini cast iron skillets for a rustic feel, perfect for entertaining. Turning it into stuffed bell peppers or serving in edible Parmesan bowls are fun, creative twists that make this recipe even more memorable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, pack any leftovers into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the dish just as delicious—if not better—the next day. Just be sure to consume within 3 to 4 days for the best freshness.
Freezing
Although this Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken Recipe is best fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Portion the dish into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. When frozen, it will keep well for up to 2 months, but know that the texture of the cream may change slightly upon thawing.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid curdling the cream. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce as it warms. Stir frequently until heated through. Microwave reheating works too, but do so in short bursts with stirring in between for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use another type of pasta instead of orzo?
Absolutely! While orzo is perfect for its small size and creamy absorption, you can substitute with other small pasta shapes like ditalini, acini di pepe, or even small shells. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap heavy cream for coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. Keep in mind the flavor will shift slightly, but it will still remain creamy and delicious.
Can I prepare this recipe using chicken thighs?
Chicken thighs work wonderfully due to their juiciness and flavor. Just dice and cook them similarly to the breast, adjusting cooking time if pieces are larger or bone-in.
How spicy is the recipe with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a hint of heat, something you can easily adjust or omit based on your taste. It’s subtle warmth that complements the creaminess without overpowering.
What if I don’t have tomato sauce on hand?
If you don’t have tomato sauce, you can substitute with crushed tomatoes or pureed fresh tomatoes. Just keep the consistency in mind, as you may need to cook a bit longer to achieve the same creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dish that feels familiar yet full of wonderful flavor, and this Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken Recipe fits the bill perfectly. It’s a comforting, flavorful meal that’s quick enough for busy nights but also delicious enough for company. I can’t wait for you to make it your own and share it with those you love—happy cooking!
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Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken recipe is a comforting and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for weeknight dinners. Tender chicken pieces are sautéed to perfection, then simmered with orzo pasta, a rich tomato sauce, and creamy heavy cream, creating a luscious and satisfying dish with hints of basil and optional red pepper flakes for a mild kick.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Pantry
- 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 chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add liquids and orzo: Add the orzo pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, tomato sauce, dried basil, and optional crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer orzo: Cover the skillet and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Combine chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine everything evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve the creamy tomato orzo and chicken hot, optionally garnished with additional basil or grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast for a juicier texture.
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, though it will be less rich.
- Adding a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking can boost the dish’s nutrition.
- Parmesan cheese pairs beautifully as a topping to enhance the creamy tomato flavor.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to control the heat level or omit for a milder taste.
