Orzo Tuscan Chicken Bake – Creamy, Cheesy & Full of Flavor
Make this Orzo Tuscan Chicken Bake for a hearty, creamy, and comforting dinner! Tender chicken, tender orzo pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a rich, cheesy sauce come together in a one-pan meal that’s perfect for weeknights or family dinners. Easy, flavorful, and absolutely delicious!
Equipment
- Skillet for browning chicken and sautéing vegetables
- 9x13-inch casserole dish or oven-safe baking dish
- Wooden spoon, spatula, and mixing bowls
- Cheese grater
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Aluminum foil (for covering during baking)
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach (or 10 oz frozen, thawed and drained)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or Greek yogurt/cream cheese for lighter version)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp Italian herbs (optional)
- Optional: mushrooms, roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Sear in a skillet for 2–3 minutes per side until golden. Set aside.
- Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant. Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and optional vegetables; cook until tender.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan; heat until slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Mix partially cooked or uncooked orzo into the sauce and vegetables. Layer chicken on top or fold it in.
- Sprinkle mozzarella over the top. Cover with foil and bake 25–30 minutes; remove foil for last 5–10 minutes to brown cheese.
- Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Make-Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate overnight; bake fresh.
- Freezing: Freeze baked or unbaked casserole for 2–3 months; thaw before baking.
- Cheese Variations: Mozzarella, provolone, or Monterey Jack work well. Parmesan adds sharpness.
- Vegetable Options: Mushrooms, zucchini, roasted red peppers, or artichoke hearts enhance flavor and nutrition.
- Prevent Watery Casserole: Sauté or drain spinach and other vegetables to remove excess moisture.
- Reheating: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through to preserve creaminess.