Imagine juicy cherry tomatoes bursting with sweetness, mixed with the brightness of fresh lemon juice. The orzo pasta soaks up all the rich, creamy goodness, while sharp Parmesan adds just the right amount of bite. It’s a dish that feels like a hug, simple to make but full of flavor, and one that you’ll find yourself turning to again and again.

Why This Recipe Will Become Your New Favorite

• Effortless Prep: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this Tuscan Chicken Bake is as low-maintenance as it gets. It’s perfect for those nights when you want a homemade meal without the hassle—simply toss everything together and let the oven do the work.
• No-Fuss Cooking: Say goodbye to a sink full of dishes. This recipe is truly a one-pan wonder—just mix, bake, and serve. No extra bowls, no unnecessary steps, just straightforward, delicious cooking.
• Perfect for Busy Days: When life gets hectic, and takeout seems like the only option, this dish swoops in to save the day. It’s as easy as “dump and bake,” but with all the comfort and satisfaction of a meal made from scratch.
• Even Better the Next Day: This bake doesn’t just make dinner easy; it’s also a great option for leftovers. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious when reheated. Just add a splash of chicken broth, and you’re ready to enjoy it all over again.

Tuscan Orzo Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the sides of a 9×13-inch casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray to ensure easy cleanup later.
2. Assemble the Ingredients: In the prepared casserole dish, combine the following: dry orzo, cooked chicken, chicken stock, heavy cream, minced garlic, chopped basil, cherry tomatoes, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
   • Tip: If using garlic powder instead of fresh garlic, add it in at this stage.
     Mix everything together thoroughly so the ingredients are evenly distributed and the orzo is submerged in the liquid.
3. Add the Cheese: Stir in half of the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella into the casserole dish. This ensures that some of the cheese melts throughout the dish while baking, adding a rich, creamy texture.
4. Top and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan and mozzarella evenly over the top of the dish. Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
5. Rest Before Serving: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to be absorbed and the dish to set, which helps prevent it from being too liquidy.
6. Final Stir and Serve: After resting, give the dish a good stir with a large serving spoon to redistribute the ingredients and ensure every bite is packed with flavor. Serve the Tuscan Chicken Bake hot, paired with a fresh salad or your favorite side dish. Enjoy!

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Recipe Variations

One of the best things about this Tuscan Chicken Bake is how adaptable it is. Here are a few variations to suit different tastes, dietary needs, and ingredient availability:

1. Vegetarian Option:
   Skip the chicken and add more veggies for a hearty, vegetarian version. Consider adding sliced mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the mix. You could also substitute the chicken with a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas for added protein.
2. Seafood Twist:
   Swap out the chicken for cooked shrimp or chunks of firm white fish, such as cod or halibut. The seafood will absorb the flavors beautifully, adding a coastal flair to the dish.
3. Spicy Kick:
   If you enjoy a bit of heat, stir in some crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño. You can also use spicy Italian sausage in place of the chicken for a more intense flavor profile.
4. Low-Carb Version:
   Replace the orzo with cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. Keep in mind that cauliflower rice cooks much faster, so reduce the baking time to avoid overcooking.
5. Dairy-Free:
   Make this dish dairy-free by using coconut milk or a plant-based cream substitute instead of heavy cream. Opt for dairy-free cheese alternatives, which are widely available, to maintain that cheesy goodness.
6. Herb Variations:
   While basil is the star in this version, you can easily switch it up with other herbs depending on your preference. Fresh thyme, rosemary, or even a mix of Italian herbs can bring different nuances to the dish.
7. Pasta Alternatives:
   If you don’t have orzo on hand, try this recipe with another type of small pasta like couscous, ditalini, or even quinoa for a different texture.
8. Extra Creamy:
   For an even creamier version, double the amount of heavy cream and add a touch more cheese. This creates a richer, more indulgent dish that’s perfect for those who love extra creaminess.
9. Add Some Greens:
   While this recipe already includes basil, you can bulk it up with other greens like kale, arugula, or even Swiss chard. Just make sure to chop them finely and mix them in well.
10. Gluten-Free:
    Substitute the orzo with a gluten-free pasta option, and ensure that all other ingredients, like the chicken stock and seasonings, are certified gluten-free.