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This warm and cozy meal brings juicy chicken and tasty orzo together in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. You get it all done in a single pot in about half an hour.
If you toast the orzo first, it gives everything a yummy, roasted note that really brings this dish up a notch. Don't skip it.
Irresistible Ingredients:
- Fresh basil: Makes it taste light and fresh
- Quality Parmesan: Grate it yourself for best results
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Packs a ton of flavor
- Rotisserie chicken: Super easy and quick
- Heavy cream: Makes everything extra creamy
- Orzo pasta: Smooth and cooks fast like risotto
- White wine: Gives a bold finishing touch
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Simple Steps to Follow:
- Finish Up
- Let everything sit under the lid
- Fold in fresh basil
- Mix in Parmesan gently
- Stir shredded chicken through
- Cook Orzo
- Keep an eye on the texture
- Add more broth if it’s too thick
- Bite test for doneness
- Stir so nothing burns
- Create Sauce
- Bring in the cream last
- Pour broth in slowly
- Splash in the wine
- Let everything bubble and thicken
- Flavor Foundation
- Toss in seasonings and garlic
- Toast the orzo until it’s a little golden
- Add in tomato paste with sun-dried tomatoes
- Start with butter and oil in the pan
Easy Storage Ideas:
Store in the fridge for three to four days. Skip freezing since the sauce can split when thawed.
Tasty Pairings:
Try it with a fresh salad or some crusty garlic bread on the side.
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Cook’s Handy Hints:
- Don’t skimp on a good wine
- Use freshly grated Parmesan, not pre-shredded
- Add more broth if it looks dry
- Taste and tweak salt and pepper after simmering
After making this quite a few times, I’ve learned slow and steady stirring plus not overdoing the liquid is what gives the best creamy texture.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Why keep an eye on the liquid?
- Orzo drinks up liquid pretty fast, so pour in a splash more broth if it starts looking dry.
- → Can I leave out the wine?
- Just use more chicken stock if you don't want wine.
- → Which chicken is best here?
- Rotisserie is super easy, or grab any cooked and pulled chicken you have.
- → Is this good for meal prep?
- Eat it fresh if you can. It gets thicker if it sits in the fridge.
- → Got any tasty swaps?
- Toss in more veggies or swap chicken for shrimp. Both are great.