Name: One Pot Orzo Tuscan Chicken Bake
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken or diced chicken; 1 cup uncooked orzo; 5 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 tsp paprika; 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning; 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup fat-free half and half or whole milk; 1/3 cup sun-dried chopped tomatoes (without oil) or 1 pint cherry tomatoes, sliced; 1/2 tsp salt and ground black pepper, to taste; 2 cups fresh baby spinach, chopped or torn; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The One Pot Orzo Tuscan Chicken Bake is a comforting, flavorful, and incredibly easy-to-make meal. Packed with tender rotisserie chicken, creamy orzo, and aromatic Italian spices, this dish brings the rich flavors of Tuscan cooking into your kitchen with minimal effort. It’s a dump-and-bake recipe that saves you time on cleanup and guarantees a satisfying dinner in just about 50 minutes. Perfect for busy nights or a cozy meal with family!

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken or diced chicken
1 cup uncooked orzo
5 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup fat-free half and half or whole milk
1/3 cup sun-dried chopped tomatoes (without oil) or 1 pint cherry tomatoes, sliced
1/2 tsp salt and ground black pepper, to taste
2 cups fresh baby spinach, chopped or torn
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F and spray a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick spray.
In the baking dish, combine uncooked orzo and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
Add the cooked chicken, half and half (or milk), garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, sun-dried tomatoes (or cherry tomatoes), spinach, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until well combined.
Bake for 40 minutes or until the orzo is tender.
Remove from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6 (3/4 cup each)
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Swap Pasta Types: You can use any pasta you prefer instead of orzo, such as penne or ziti.
Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free alternative for the half and half and cheese for a dairy-free version.
Add Veggies: Toss in extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for more nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Reheating: To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth to prevent the dish from drying out. Cover with foil and heat in the oven at 325°F for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use cooked chicken breasts instead of rotisserie chicken?

Yes, cooked chicken breasts can be used instead of rotisserie chicken.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish and store it in the fridge before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat.

Is there a substitute for orzo?

You can substitute orzo with any small pasta shape like penne or fusilli.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze this dish for up to two months. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or some hot sauce to give the dish a spicy kick.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free orzo and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free.

What can I serve with this dish?

A side salad or garlic bread would complement this dish nicely.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat leftovers in the oven with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist, or use the microwave for a quicker option.

Can I make this in a different type of dish?

Yes, you can use any oven-safe baking dish, as long as it accommodates the ingredients.

How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.

Conclusion

The One Pot Orzo Tuscan Chicken Bake is a flavorful and hassle-free meal that combines creamy orzo, tender chicken, and fresh vegetables. It’s a perfect go-to for weeknight dinners, offering rich Tuscan flavors with minimal cleanup. Whether served as a complete meal or paired with a side, this dish is sure to become a household favorite!