Tuscan Chicken and Orzo Casserole

Looking for a comforting and flavorful dinner that’s easy to prepare for those busy weeknights? Look no further than the irresistible Orzo Tuscan Chicken Bake. This one-pan wonder combines creamy orzo, tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and juicy cherry tomatoes, all baked to perfection. With a touch of Italian seasoning and a sprinkle of cheese, this dish strikes the perfect balance between sophistication and hominess.

I stumbled upon this Orzo Tuscan Chicken Bake recipe during an impromptu dinner party, and it was an instant hit. The excited murmurs of satisfaction around the table spoke volumes about this dish’s appeal. Even my Italian grandmother, who rarely strays from her culinary traditions, couldn’t resist the charm of this bake. The burst cherry tomatoes added a sweet note that transported her back to summers in Tuscany. So, if you’re craving a taste of comfort with a touch of elegance, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Not only is this Tuscan Chicken Bake delicious, but it also offers a nutritional boost with spinach, tomatoes, and protein-packed chicken. Plus, its adaptability allows for endless variations to suit your preferences. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or get creative with different proteins and veggies, this dish is a versatile crowd-pleaser that promises to satisfy your cravings. Dive into a slice of Tuscany with every bite of this delightful Orzo Tuscan Chicken Bake!

Quick Benefits

• One-pan wonder: Simplifies cooking with minimal cleanup and fuss of multiple pots, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Highly adaptable: Easily customize with various protein options (Italian sausage, seafood), vegetables, and cheeses for endless variations.
• Nutrient-packed: Packed with essential nutrients like iron, vitamin K, folate, lycopene, vitamin C, protein, and calcium, offering a complete and wholesome meal.
• Meal prep friendly: Reheats exceptionally well, making it an ideal candidate for meal prepping and enjoying as leftovers.

Why You’ll Love This Tuscan Chicken and Orzo Casserole Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy a restaurant-worthy meal without the hassle of using multiple pots and pans, making cleanup a breeze.
• Versatile: The recipe is adaptable, allowing you to customize it with your favorite proteins like Italian sausage or seafood, and various vegetables to suit your preferences.
• Impressive Flavor: The burst cherry tomatoes, creamy orzo, and tender chicken create a sophisticated yet homey dish that will impress your guests and family.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with essential nutrients like iron, vitamin K, folate, lycopene, vitamin C, protein, and calcium, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Reheats exceptionally well, making it ideal for meal prep, and can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Family Approved: Received seal of approval from an Italian grandmother, making it a hit with traditional food lovers.
• Make-Ahead Option: Can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge, perfect for planning and prepping meals in advance.
• Accompaniments: Pair with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread to elevate the flavors and create a complete and comforting meal.

Ingredients for Tuscan Chicken and Orzo Casserole

Main Ingredients

• 3 cups loosely packed baby spinach leaves, roughly chopped (or 8 oz box chopped spinach, thawed and well-drained)
• 1.5 cups mozzarella, shredded
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon salt or more to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon freshly cracked pepper
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, whole or halved
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder if not using fresh garlic
• 2 cups cooked chicken, rotisserie or sautéed, diced
• 3 cups unsalted chicken stock
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 2/3 cup parmesan, grated or shredded
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 16 oz dry orzo

How to Make Tuscan Chicken and Orzo Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the casserole dish

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and coat the sides of a 9×13 casserole dish with non-stick spray.

Step 2: Assemble the ingredients

Combine orzo, cooked chicken, chicken stock, cream, seasonings, garlic, spinach, tomatoes, lemon juice, and half of each cheese in a casserole dish. Mix well to evenly distribute ingredients in a flat layer.

Step 3: Add cheese topping

Evenly sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.

Step 4: Bake the dish

Bake the casserole dish in the oven for 40 minutes or until the orzo is tender.

Step 5: Rest and serve

Take the dish out of the oven and allow it to rest for 10 minutes to let the pan juices soak in. Stir gently with a serving spoon before serving. Enjoy hot, and consider serving with a side of chopped salad.

Storage Tips

Once you have enjoyed your delicious Orzo Tuscan Chicken Bake, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, simply use the microwave or oven until hot, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to refresh the texture due to the orzo’s tendency to absorb liquid over time.

If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, you can assemble it and store it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake it, allow the dish to come to room temperature before following the original baking instructions. This dish pairs well with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread, complementing its comforting flavors perfectly. Feel free to make variations with different proteins, vegetables, or cheeses to suit your preferences, as the versatile framework of this recipe allows for endless creativity.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have orzo on hand, feel free to substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so adjust as needed to ensure the pasta is cooked to your preference.

For a vegetarian or plant-based version of this Tuscan Chicken Bake, you can easily swap the chicken with a plant-based protein such as cooked chickpeas, mushrooms, or a variety of vegetables. Additionally, using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock will maintain the savory base of the dish while catering to different dietary preferences.

When storing leftovers of the Tuscan Chicken Bake, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, use the microwave or oven until the dish is heated through to enjoy the flavors once again.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative twist, serve the Orzo Tuscan Chicken Bake in individual mini cast iron skillets or ramekins for a charming presentation that’s perfect for dinner parties or special occasions. Top each portion with a sprinkle of extra parmesan and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a gourmet touch that will elevate the dish.

To add a crunchy texture contrast, consider topping the baked Tuscan Chicken Orzo with a crispy panko breadcrumb and parmesan cheese crust. Simply mix panko breadcrumbs with grated parmesan and a hint of Italian seasoning, then sprinkle it over the dish before the final minutes of baking for a delightful golden finish that adds a delicious crunch to every bite. Serve with a side of garlic bread to mop up the creamy sauce and enjoy a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress your guests.

FAQs for Tuscan Chicken and Orzo Casserole

Can I substitute orzo with other types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta like ditalini or small shells. However, cooking times may vary slightly.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock and swap the chicken with a plant-based protein such as cooked chickpeas, mushrooms, or additional vegetables.

How should I store leftovers of this Tuscan Chicken Bake?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot.

Can I assemble the dish ahead of time and bake it later?

Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature and then follow the baking instructions.

Conclusion

As you embark on creating your own version of this flavorful and versatile Orzo Tuscan Chicken Bake, remember to infuse it with your personal touch and favorite ingredients. Whether you stick closely to the original recipe or venture into new flavor territories, let your creativity guide you in the kitchen. Embrace the warmth and comfort this dish brings to your table, making each meal a cherished experience.

I hope this Orzo Tuscan Chicken Bake becomes a beloved staple in your recipe collection, just as it has in mine. Its simplicity, adaptability, and heartwarming flavors make it a true winner for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the aroma of this delightful dish fill your kitchen with joy and anticipation. Here’s to many more delicious moments shared around the table with your version of the Orzo Tuscan Chicken Bake. Happy cooking!

Tuscan Chicken and Orzo Casserole

Creamy orzo and tender chicken mingle with spinach, burst cherry tomatoes, and gooey cheese in this Tuscan Chicken Bake, a one-pan wonder perfect for weeknight dinners.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time10 Minutes

Cook Time40 Minutes

Total Time50 Minutes

CuisineItalian-inspired

Skill LevelEasy

Servings6 Servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 3 cups loosely packed baby spinach leaves, roughly chopped (or 8 oz box chopped spinach, thawed and well-drained)
• 1.5 cups mozzarella, shredded
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon salt or more to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon freshly cracked pepper
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, whole or halved
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder if not using fresh garlic
• 2 cups cooked chicken, rotisserie or sautéed, diced
• 3 cups unsalted chicken stock
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 2/3 cup parmesan, grated or shredded
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 16 oz dry orzo

Instructions

1. Prepare the casserole dish: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and coat the sides of a 9×13 casserole dish with non-stick spray.
2. Assemble the ingredients: Combine orzo, cooked chicken, chicken stock, cream, seasonings, garlic, spinach, tomatoes, lemon juice, and half of each cheese in a casserole dish. Mix well to evenly distribute ingredients in a flat layer.
3. Add cheese topping: Evenly sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
4. Bake the dish: Bake the casserole dish in the oven for 40 minutes or until the orzo is tender.
5. Rest and serve: Take the dish out of the oven and allow it to rest for 10 minutes to let the pan juices soak in. Stir gently with a serving spoon before serving. Enjoy hot, and consider serving with a side of chopped salad.