Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo

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Rich, velvety, and packed with comforting flavors, this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo is the kind of dish that brings people together around the table. Tender chicken breasts seared until golden, nestled into a creamy, garlicky sauce filled with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and perfectly cooked orzo — every bite is a burst of cozy indulgence.

Whether you’re craving something hearty for a weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests with a one-pan wonder, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. The orzo soaks up all the delicious juices, making each forkful creamy and satisfying without needing a mountain of ingredients.

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

• One-pan magic – Less mess, less stress, more flavor.
• Fast and filling – Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
• Rich and creamy – The combination of cream, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes is unbeatable.
• Customizable – Add mushrooms, swap spinach for kale, or make it spicy!
• Comfort food vibes – It’s like a warm hug in a bowl.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work beautifully here since they cook quickly and stay tender in the creamy sauce. You could also use boneless thighs for more richness. Just make sure the chicken is well-seasoned and seared to a nice golden color — that crust adds incredible depth to the final dish.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo

Every ingredient in this dish plays a crucial role in layering flavor and creating a creamy, satisfying meal. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

• Chicken breasts – Lean, tender protein that absorbs all the savory flavors.
• Orzo pasta – A rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Sun-dried tomatoes – Bring intense sweet-tangy flavor and chewiness to balance the creamy base.
• Baby spinach – Adds freshness and a burst of green to the dish.
• Garlic – Essential aromatic that builds the flavor base.
• Heavy cream – Gives the dish its rich and velvety texture.
• Chicken broth – Adds depth and allows the orzo to cook directly in the pan.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds umami and creamy saltiness to finish.
• Olive oil – Used for searing the chicken and sautéing aromatics.
• Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning each layer of the dish.
• Paprika (optional) – Adds subtle warmth and smokiness to the chicken.

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How To Make the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 3: Toast the Orzo

Add the orzo to the skillet and stir for 1–2 minutes to toast slightly and absorb the garlic flavor.

Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and cook the orzo uncovered for about 8–10 minutes until tender. Stir occasionally.

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Spinach

Once orzo is tender and most of the broth is absorbed, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and baby spinach. Let spinach wilt.

Step 6: Add Chicken and Cheese

Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet. Add Parmesan cheese and stir gently to combine. Let everything heat through until creamy and thickened.

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Serving and Storing Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo

This dish is best enjoyed fresh off the stove while the orzo is ultra-creamy and the chicken still juicy. It serves around 4 people, making it ideal for family dinners or casual entertaining. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Microwave gently or warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

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What to Serve With Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo?

H3: Garlic Bread

Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is the ultimate pairing for soaking up all that creamy sauce.

H3: Simple Green Salad

A fresh, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.

H3: Roasted Vegetables

Oven-roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts add a wholesome contrast.

H3: Steamed Asparagus

Light and elegant, asparagus complements the flavors without overpowering them.

H3: Lemon-Butter Green Beans

The zesty lemon cuts through the creaminess, adding brightness.

H3: Grilled Zucchini

Charred zucchini adds a smoky-sweet flavor that pairs well with the sun-dried tomatoes.

H3: Crusty Baguette

Sometimes, simple is best — a warm baguette is perfect for scooping.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While orzo gives a risotto-like creaminess, you can substitute with small pasta like ditalini or even couscous. Just adjust the cooking time and liquid as needed.

Is it okay to use jarred sun-dried tomatoes in oil?
Absolutely. Jarred sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil are ideal — they’re tender and flavorful. You can even use a little of the oil from the jar for cooking for extra flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare it a few hours in advance and reheat gently, but for best texture and creaminess, serve it freshly made.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Half-and-half or a mix of milk and a touch of cream cheese can work, though the result will be slightly less rich. Coconut cream is a good dairy-free alternative.

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try it with mushrooms or swap in kale? Did you spice it up?
I love hearing how you personalize these meals. Questions are always welcome — let’s help each other cook smarter and tastier.

Find more delicious recipe ideas over on my Pinterest: Meals We Share By Sally

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Conclusion

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo is your go-to when you need a dinner that’s both indulgent and simple. The combination of juicy seared chicken, rich cream, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and perfectly cooked orzo delivers comfort in every bite. It’s a one-pan meal that feels special enough for guests but easy enough for a cozy weeknight.

Make it once, and it’ll quickly become a favorite in your rotation. Don’t forget to pin it and share it — good food is always better when it’s shared.

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