Tuscan Chicken Bake with Creamy Orzo Pasta
This Tuscan Chicken Bake is a cozy, creamy one-dish wonder that brings together seared chicken thighs, a velvety garlic-Parmesan sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and perfectly cooked orzo. It’s baked to golden perfection and makes a showstopping dinner that’s both elegant and soul-warming.
Cook time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp paprika
Salt & pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
For the Sauce & Orzo:
1 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 cup orzo pasta
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), sliced
2 cups baby spinach
2 cups chicken stock
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Extra ½ cup mozzarella or Parmesan (for topping)
Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season & Sear the Chicken: Pat chicken dry and season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in an oven proof skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
3. Build the Flavor Base: In the same skillet, put olive oil and saute garlic and onion for 2–3 minutes.
Add orzo and toast lightly for 1 minute.
4. Add Veggies & Liquids: Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and spinach until wilted.
Pour in chicken stock and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return Chicken & Bake: Nestle chicken on top of orzo mixture. Sprinkle with Parmesan and mozzarella.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the orzo is tender.
6. Finish & Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or extra cheese if desired.
Tips:
Use chicken thighs: for juicier results, but breasts work fine too.
Sauce thicken: too much while baking, stir in a splash of warm broth or cream at the end.
No orzo: Substitute with small pasta like ditalini or pearl couscous.
Want a lighter version: Swap cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk.
Health Benefits:
Spinach: Rich in iron, folate, and vitamin K
Garlic: Supports immunity and heart health.
Chicken: Lean protein to support muscle repair and satiety.
Sun-dried tomatoes: Provide antioxidants like lycopene.
Orzo : Adds fiber and slow-digesting carbs.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes! You can assemble everything and refrigerate before baking. Add 5–10 minutes extra to the baking time if cold.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: It freezes well, though the cream sauce might separate slightly on reheating. Add a splash of cream while warming.
Q: Is it gluten-free?
A: Not with traditional orzo, but you can use gluten-free pasta or rice to adapt it.
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Swap chicken for chickpeas or roasted cauliflower, and use vegetable stock.
Nutritional Info:
Calories: ~560
Protein: 38g
Carbs: 28g
Fat: 34g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
(Note: Estimates may vary based on brands and substitutions)