Creamy One-Pan Chicken Delight (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Protein
01 -
1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into cubes
→ Base Ingredients
02 -
2 tablespoons olive oil
03 -
4-5 cloves garlic, mashed
04 -
¾ cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil and drained
05 -
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
06 -
2 teaspoons paprika
07 -
½ teaspoon kosher salt
08 -
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
09 -
1 cup orzo (risoni)
10 -
2 ¾ cups chicken broth or water
11 -
¾ cup full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream
→ Toppings & Finishing Touches
12 -
2 large handfuls fresh spinach
13 -
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
# Instructions:
01 -
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure proper searing. Cut them into uniform, bite-sized cubes and set aside.
02 -
Place a large skillet on medium heat and add the olive oil. Allow it to shimmer slightly before proceeding.
03 -
Add the cubed chicken to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the edges begin to turn golden. It doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage.
04 -
Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, mashed garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the garlic to become fragrant and the spices to meld together.
05 -
Add the orzo and chicken broth (or water) to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Reduce the heat to medium, cover the skillet, and simmer for 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
06 -
Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the coconut milk (or heavy cream) and fresh spinach. Continue stirring until the spinach wilts and the sauce becomes creamy and cohesive.
07 -
Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the dish and gently stir to melt it into the sauce, creating a rich and velvety texture.
08 -
Remove the skillet from the heat and serve while warm. Enjoy this delicious one-pan meal with its harmonious blend of flavors and textures!
# Notes:
01 -
Ensure the chicken is patted dry before cooking for better browning and flavor.
02 -
Stir the orzo periodically during cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
03 -
For a creamier finish, let the dish sit off the heat for a few minutes before serving.