Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and incredibly easy dinner that doesn't require hours in the kitchen? Then look no further! This Dump and Bake Tuscan Chicken Orzo recipe is your new weeknight hero. It's packed with flavor, requires minimal prep, and is ready in under an hour – perfect for busy weeknights. Get ready to experience the simplicity of homemade cooking at its finest! This recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals that are also quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Combine Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, combine the chicken, orzo, diced tomatoes, Rotel, chicken broth, sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the orzo is tender. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
Serve: Let the Tuscan chicken orzo rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a splash of white wine or lemon juice to the dish.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with 1 (15 oz) can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed.
- Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Spice it up: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Use different cheese: Try using feta cheese or a blend of Italian cheeses instead of Parmesan.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This dump and bake Tuscan chicken orzo is a perfect example of delicious dishes that are easy to make. It’s a great option for meal prepping, too! Simply double the recipe and store leftovers in the refrigerator for a quick and easy lunch or dinner throughout the week. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying recipe! It’s among the best recipes you'll find for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, offering a fantastic blend of taste and convenience. It's a surefire crowd-pleaser that showcases the joy of homemade cooking without the fuss.