Simple Creamy Tomato Orzo With Chicken
Simple Creamy Tomato Orzo With Chicken is the kind of comforting
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Orzo
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked orzo
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (or crushed for smoother sauce)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- Optional: 1 tsp Italian seasoning or fresh basil
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add olive oil or butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Stir in orzo, diced tomatoes (with juices), and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, 8–10 minutes until orzo is tender and saucy.
- Stir in cream and Parmesan until smooth.
- Return chicken to skillet and simmer 5 minutes.
- Garnish and serve.
Notes
- Thighs stay juicier, but breasts work well.
- Add spinach or peas for extra color and nutrition.
Simple Creamy Tomato Orzo With Chicken is the kind of comforting, no-stress dinner you’ll turn to again and again. Tender, golden-seared chicken is paired with soft orzo simmered in a rich tomato and cream sauce that’s both cozy and satisfying.
The tomatoes add gentle acidity and depth, while Parmesan melts into the sauce, giving it a smooth, savory finish. Cooking the orzo directly in the pan allows it to absorb all the flavors, creating a creamy, risotto-like texture without the extra work. Everything comes together in one skillet, making cleanup easy and the process effortless. This dish strikes the perfect balance between hearty and simple, making it ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed family dinners. Serve it with a crisp green salad or crusty bread to soak up the sauce for a meal that feels familiar, comforting, and always hits the spot.
