Description
Orzo Tuscan Chicken Bake is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken and creamy, herb-infused sauce with orzo pasta. This one-dish wonder is perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests. With bubbling cheese on top and vibrant spinach throughout, every bite is a delightful experience that makes mealtime memorable. Easy to prepare, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (whole milk)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sear the chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides.
- Add minced garlic and fresh spinach; sauté until the spinach wilts (about 2 minutes).
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Stir in orzo pasta until combined; sprinkle half of each cheese into the mixture before transferring it to the greased baking dish.
- Top with remaining cheeses and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, consider adding your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. Feel free to substitute the chicken for shrimp or chickpeas for a different twist. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently in the microwave.