Orzo Tuscan Chicken Bake: A Cozy, Flavor-Packed One-Pan Meal
Orzo Tuscan Chicken Bake is a delightful one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, creamy orzo, and vibrant vegetables for a comforting family dinner. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Each bite offers a blend of savory garlic, nutty cheese, and fresh spinach, enveloped in a luxurious sauce that makes it an instant favorite for both kids and adults. Plus, with minimal cleanup required, you can spend more time enjoying the meal with your loved ones. Get ready to savor this delicious casserole that warms the heart!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 16 oz dry orzo
- 2 cups cooked chicken (diced)
- 3 cups unsalted chicken stock
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 5 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 cups baby spinach leaves (roughly chopped)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the orzo in boiling water according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix together cooked chicken, chicken stock, heavy cream, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, spinach, cherry tomatoes, lemon juice, and half of both cheeses. Gently fold in the cooked orzo.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg