Orzo Tuscan Chicken Bake

Introduction

In the mood for a comforting and delicious meal that will transport you straight to the rolling hills of Tuscany? Look no further than this Orzo Tuscan Chicken Bake recipe! This dish is a perfect balance of tender chicken, savory orzo pasta, and flavorful herbs and spices. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme.
4. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
7. Add the orzo pasta, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, and half of the chopped basil to the skillet. Stir to combine.
8. Place the chicken breasts on top of the orzo mixture in the skillet.
9. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the orzo is tender.
10. Remove from the oven and garnish with the remaining chopped basil before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended for this recipe for quicker cooking, you can certainly use bone-in chicken breasts or thighs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is cooked through.

2. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can definitely use fresh tomatoes in place of canned. Simply chop up 2-3 medium tomatoes and use them in the recipe as directed.

3. Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize this dish by adding in your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed based on the vegetables you choose.

Conclusion

This Orzo Tuscan Chicken Bake is a simple yet flavorful dish that is perfect for any night of the week. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in no time. So go ahead and give this recipe a try – your taste buds will thank you!

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