Oh, hey there! Let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite recipes: the Tuscan Chicken and Orzo Skillet. This dish has become a beloved staple in my kitchen for many reasons. First of all, it’s all made in one pan, which means fewer dishes—yaaaas! It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when I want something hearty and delicious without spending hours cleaning up afterward. Plus, the combination of savory chicken, tender orzo, and vibrant veggies makes my taste buds sing!
I have some vivid memories of making this dish on cozy Sunday evenings with family. There’s just something magical about gathering around the table and enjoying a warm bowl of comfort food. The creaminess from the heavy cream and melted Parmesan cheese is heavenly. I mean, who wouldn’t want to dig into that after a long day? So, if you’re ready for a flavorful adventure, let’s dive into this Tuscan delight!
What’s in Tuscan Chicken and Orzo Skillet?
Now, let’s break down the ingredients to see what we’re working with:
Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: These babies are the star of the show. They’re flavorful and stay juicy throughout the cooking process. I find that the skin adds an extra crispy texture, which is just divine!
Salt and pepper: A must for seasoning. Don’t be shy; it’s what helps to bring out all those delicious flavors.
Olive oil: This is my go-to for cooking because it’s heart-healthy and adds a lovely richness to the dish.
Onion: Diced and aromatic, it forms the flavor base of our skillet. Plus, who can resist that sweet, caramelized goodness?
Garlic: Garlic lovers unite! I like to add a generous amount because it not only tastes amazing but also fills the house with that irresistible aroma.
Celery: Diced for a slight crunch and a lovely freshness.
Bell pepper: You can use either red or yellow. They add color and sweetness, making the dish even more appealing.
Baby spinach: Chopped spinach adds nutritional value and a beautiful pop of green.
Dried Italian herbs: A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme for that classic Italian flavor.
Orzo pasta: Tiny and cute, this pasta cooks quickly and absorbs the broth beautifully, making the dish hearty and satisfying.
Chicken broth: This is the magic potion of flavor! I recommend using low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.
Heavy cream: This adds a luscious creaminess to the dish that makes it feel indulgent without being too heavy.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Because cheese makes everything better! It melts into the dish, adding a wonderful depth of flavor.
Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley at the end brightens up the dish and adds that perfect finishing touch.
Is Tuscan Chicken and Orzo Skillet Good for You?
Ah, the million-dollar question! This Tuscan Chicken and Orzo Skillet has some health benefits, but of course, everything in moderation, right?
Chicken thighs: These are a good source of protein and iron. They provide the energy we need, and let’s face it, they’re so flavorful!
Vegetables: The onion, celery, bell pepper, and spinach not only add crunch and color but also provide vitamins and minerals. Spinach is particularly high in iron and vitamins A and C.
Orzo: This tiny pasta serves as a comforting carb source. It fuels your day, but it’s good to keep portion sizes in mind if you’re watching your carb intake.
Heavy cream: While scrumptious, it is rich in calories and saturated fats, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation. You can always opt for a lighter cream if you’re looking to cut back a bit.
All in all, this dish is a balanced meal with protein, carbs, and plenty of veggies, making it a wholesome choice for dinner.
Ingredients List
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced
– 1 cup baby spinach, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh herbs (such as thyme or parsley) for garnish
This recipe serves about 4 people, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends!
How to Make Tuscan Chicken and Orzo Skillet?
Ready to get cooking? Let’s do this!
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Add the chicken skin-side down and sear for about 5-7 minutes until they’re golden brown. Flip them over and cook for another 5 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, toss in the diced onion, garlic, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté these for about 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
3. Stir in the chopped spinach and dried Italian herbs, cooking for just another minute until the spinach wilts.
4. Add the orzo to the veggie medley, giving it a good stir to mix everything up. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Nestle the seared chicken thighs right on top of the orzo mixture, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. You want the chicken to be cooked through and the orzo to be tender.
6. In the last few minutes of cooking, sprinkle that glorious grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Let it melt into the dish, and you’ll be swooning!
7. Finally, garnish with fresh herbs before serving. Enjoy your Tuscan Chicken and Orzo Skillet hot, and get ready for the compliments to roll in!
Serving Suggestions for a Tuscan Feast
This dish is simply perfect as is, but if you want to jazz it up, here are a few ideas! Pair it with a crisp side salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. A warm, crusty baguette on the side for mopping up that creamy sauce is always a hit! Oh, and let’s not forget a nice glass of white wine to complement the flavors perfectly.
Now that you have the recipe in hand, I hope you feel inspired to whip this up in your kitchen! It’s perfect for an intimate family dinner or a gathering with friends. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you—feel free to share your experience in the comments below. Happy cooking!
