Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken – Easy & Flavorful

This Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken recipe delivers a comforting, rich meal in under 30 minutes. Simple, delicious, and perfect for busy weeknights.

Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken

If you’re looking for a quick, satisfying meal, this Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken fits the bill perfectly. It combines tender chicken pieces with orzo pasta simmered in a luscious tomato sauce enriched with cream and Parmesan. This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want comfort food without the fuss.

The creamy tomato base infuses the orzo with rich flavor, while the chicken adds protein, turning this simple pasta dish into a complete meal. Plus, it’s flexible – you can swap out ingredients easily to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Before we dive into the recipe, be sure to check out other Easy Weeknight Dinners for more simple meal ideas.

Why You’ll Love It

This recipe is a standout for several reasons. The combination of creamy tomato sauce and tender orzo provides a comforting texture and rich taste that feels indulgent yet fresh. It’s an effortless dish that doesn’t require complicated steps, but the flavors make it feel like you spent a lot of time cooking.

It’s also versatile; you can quickly adapt this meal for gluten-free or dairy-free diets, and it uses pantry staples you probably already have. The one-pot or one-skillet approach means minimal cleanup, and the leftovers heat up beautifully for the next day.

For food lovers who appreciate a well-rounded dinner, this recipe hits all the marks: quick to prep, rich in flavor, and fulfilling.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced (substitute with thighs or plant-based chicken for variation)
• 1 cup orzo pasta (can use gluten-free orzo or couscous)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (yellow or white onion works)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is best for flavor)
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes (fire-roasted can add smoky depth)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free option)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (vegetable broth for vegetarian swap)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (nutritional yeast for vegan version)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season diced chicken with salt and pepper, then sauté until cooked through and lightly golden, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes, scraping browned bits from the bottom.
3. Add crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in orzo and cook, uncovered, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 10 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
5. Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy.
6. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, stirring well to combine. Heat through for 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm.

Expert Tips

For perfectly cooked chicken, make sure it’s cut into uniform pieces so they cook evenly. Avoid overcooking the orzo by checking it a minute or two before the package suggests. If the mixture becomes too thick, add a splash more broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

You can add veggies such as spinach or mushrooms during the onion step to boost nutrition. To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and Parmesan with nutritional yeast.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly.

Variations

• Vegan: Use plant-based chicken, replace cream with coconut cream, and Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
• Gluten-Free: Swap orzo with gluten-free pasta or rice.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and omit Parmesan or substitute with vegan cheese.
• Refined Sugar-Free: This recipe is naturally free of refined sugars.

FAQ

Can I make Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken in advance?

Yes, it reheats well and can be made a day ahead for simple meal prep.

What can I substitute for orzo?

Gluten-free pasta, rice, or even small shells work as alternatives.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Chicken pieces should be opaque and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Absolutely, Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken stores and reheats well, making it a great meal prep option.

Call to Action

Give this Creamy Tomato Orzo with Chicken recipe a try and let us know what you think! Drop a comment below, rate the recipe, and share it with friends looking for easy weeknight meals. For more dinner inspiration, explore our collection of Chicken Recipes and Food Network.