One-Pan Creamy Tomato Basil Orzo with Chicken -

Looking for a delicious, comforting meal that’s easy to make and clean up afterward? This One-Pan Creamy Tomato Basil Orzo with Chicken is a perfect choice. With tender chicken, buttery orzo, and a creamy tomato sauce, it’s a dish that will satisfy the whole family, all made in a single pan!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This creamy tomato basil orzo with chicken checks all the boxes for a perfect weeknight dinner. It’s not only quick to prepare, taking only 35 minutes from start to finish, but it’s also incredibly flavorful. The combination of juicy chicken, fresh basil, and creamy sauce creates a comforting dish that feels gourmet yet is simple enough for even novice cooks. Plus, with only one pan to clean, you’ll love the convenience!

Pro Tips for Making One-Pan Creamy Tomato Basil Orzo with Chicken

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil makes a significant difference in flavor. If possible, use fresh herbs instead of dry.

Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Keep an eye on the orzo as it cooks. You want it al dente, as it will continue to cook with the sauce.
Customize Your Heat: Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your heat preference. Omit them for a milder dish.
Add Vegetables: Feel free to toss in some spinach or kale for added nutrition without much effort.

Make it Ahead: The dish can be made ahead of time and reheated for a quick dinner. Just add a splash of chicken broth when reheating to loosen up the sauce.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make the One-Pan Creamy Tomato Basil Orzo with Chicken:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup orzo pasta
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup fresh basil, chopped

Salt and pepper, to taste
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your One-Pan Creamy Tomato Basil Orzo with Chicken:

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: In the same skillet, sauté the onion until soft, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
Step 3: Stir in the orzo and toast slightly, cooking for about 12 minutes.

Step 4: Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Step 5: Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
Step 6: Stir in the cooked chicken, heavy cream, Parmesan, and fresh basil. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until creamy and well combined.

Step 7: Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! You can omit the chicken and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You might also want to add some extra veggies!

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.

3. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Definitely! You can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes, but cooking times may vary.

4. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze it. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat when ready to serve.

5. How can I enhance the flavor of the dish?

Consider adding a splash of lemon juice or zest, or some sautéed mushrooms for extra depth of flavor.

Conclusion

This One-Pan Creamy Tomato Basil Orzo with Chicken is a splendid choice for a quick, simple, and flavorful meal that your family will love. With its minimal cleanup and ease of preparation, it’s ideal for busy weeknights. Don’t forget to experiment with different ingredients to make this dish your own!