Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Italy with our Sun-Dried Tomato Basil and Parmesan Orzo with Chicken! This delectable dish combines succulent chicken, aromatic basil, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, all enveloped in creamy orzo pasta that will transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also promises to become a family favorite. Ready to elevate your cooking game? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb of diced chicken breast, 1 cup of orzo pasta, 1/2 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 1/2 cup of chopped fresh basil, 1 cup of chicken broth, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced chicken breast to the pan. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and cooked through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add the orzo pasta and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently. This will enhance the flavor of the pasta.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the orzo simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- While the orzo is cooking, chop the sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil. Set aside for later use.
- Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the cooked chicken, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the mixture and stir until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit for a minute to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the Sun-Dried Tomato Basil and Parmesan Orzo with Chicken warm, garnished with extra basil or Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious Italian-inspired meal!
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil. If possible, use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for added richness.
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Ensure your chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety and juiciness. You can marinate the chicken beforehand for extra flavor.
- Toast the Orzo: Don’t skip the toasting step! It enhances the nutty flavor of the orzo, making your dish even more delicious.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a creamier orzo, add a splash more chicken broth or a dollop of cream towards the end of cooking.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil on top before serving not only adds flavor but also makes for a beautiful presentation.
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or substitute the chicken with shrimp for a different twist!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 95mg
