Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo: A One-Pan Comfort Dish

Name: Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo: A One-Pan Comfort Dish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), chopped; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium); 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 cups baby spinach (optional); Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Author: rodrigo Stone

Published: August 12, 2025

Updated: August 12, 2025

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Some nights call for a dinner that’s rich, comforting, and full of flavor—but still easy enough to make on a weeknight. Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo fits that bill perfectly. This dish brings together juicy seared chicken, tender orzo pasta, and a velvety sauce infused with tangy sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan cheese—all in one skillet.

The inspiration comes from the Mediterranean, where sun-dried tomatoes add bursts of concentrated flavor to pasta dishes and sauces. By pairing them with creamy orzo and savory chicken, you get a meal that feels both indulgent and balanced. Best of all, it’s a one-pan recipe, which means fewer dishes and more time to enjoy dinner. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or just treating yourself, this dish will earn a permanent place in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo

One-pan wonder – Easy cooking and minimal cleanup.
Rich, bold flavors – Sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan bring depth and tang.
Quick to make – Ready in about 35 minutes.
Versatile – Swap proteins or add vegetables to suit your taste.
Comfort food with a twist – Creamy and satisfying, but not overly heavy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken

1 ½ lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika (optional for color)
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Creamy Orzo

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup orzo pasta (uncooked)
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), drained and chopped
3 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped (optional)

For Garnish

Fresh basil or parsley
Extra Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).
Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in orzo and cook for 1–2 minutes, toasting slightly for extra flavor.

Step 3: Add the Liquids and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet.
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Cook uncovered for 7–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Make it Creamy

Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
Reduce heat to low and let the mixture thicken for 3–4 minutes.
If using spinach, stir it in during the last 2 minutes to wilt.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Slice the cooked chicken and place it back into the skillet on top of the creamy orzo.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and extra Parmesan.
Serve immediately while hot.

Tips for the Best Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo

Toast the orzo – Light toasting adds a subtle nutty flavor.
Don’t overcook – Orzo should be al dente, not mushy.
Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes – They have richer flavor than dry-packed ones.
Adjust thickness – Add extra broth if the sauce is too thick before serving.
Grate your own Parmesan – Pre-grated cheese can make sauces grainy.

Flavor Variations

Protein swap – Try shrimp, salmon, or Italian sausage instead of chicken.
Veggie boost – Add roasted bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
Herb infusion – Stir in fresh thyme or rosemary with the garlic for an aromatic touch.
Light version – Use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic bread – Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Green salad – A crisp side salad balances the richness.
Grilled vegetables – Complements the Mediterranean flavors.
Roasted asparagus – Adds freshness and texture to the meal.

Storing and Reheating

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Not recommended due to dairy separation, but can be frozen if texture change is acceptable.
Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

Calories: 560
Protein: 36g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fat: 28g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g

Values may vary depending on exact ingredients and portion sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but the orzo will absorb more liquid as it sits. Add a splash of broth or cream when reheating.

2. Can I use half-and-half instead of cream?
Yes—just note the sauce will be slightly less rich.

3. What’s the best skillet for this recipe?
A large, deep skillet or sauté pan works best to fit everything comfortably.

4. Can I make it without Parmesan?
Yes, but Parmesan adds both saltiness and creaminess—try substituting with Pecorino Romano or Asiago.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo is the kind of recipe that makes you look like you spent hours in the kitchen when in reality, it comes together in under 40 minutes. The tangy-sweet sun-dried tomatoes pair perfectly with savory chicken and rich, cheesy orzo, creating a dish that’s comforting yet fresh.

It’s perfect for busy weeknights, date nights, or even dinner parties when you want to impress with minimal effort. Once you try it, this one-pan wonder will be a regular in your meal rotation.