This Dump and Bake Tuscan Chicken with Orzo recipe is the ultimate weeknight meal solution. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and requires minimal cleanup – a trifecta for busy cooks! Simply dump everything into a baking dish, bake, and enjoy a delicious, satisfying dinner. This recipe is perfect for busy families, meal prepping, or anyone who appreciates a flavorful yet straightforward meal.
What is Tuscan Chicken?
Tuscan chicken typically features sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, garlic, and Italian herbs, creating a rich and savory flavor profile reminiscent of the Tuscan region of Italy. Our dump and bake version streamlines the process while maintaining the authentic essence of this classic dish.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions: The Easy Dump and Bake Method
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and the orzo becomes perfectly tender.
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Combine all ingredients in a large baking dish. Yes, it’s that simple! Just toss everything together – the chicken, orzo, diced tomatoes, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, garlic, olive oil, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Make sure the ingredients are well distributed.
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Bake for 35-40 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).
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Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of pasta?
While orzo is ideal for this recipe due to its small size and ability to absorb the flavors well, you can experiment with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the pasta type.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make this recipe healthier, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs (breasts have lower fat content), reduce the amount of olive oil, and use low-sodium diced tomatoes. Adding more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers would also boost the nutritional value.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
What can I serve with this Tuscan chicken and orzo?
This dish is delicious on its own, but you can enhance it further with a side salad, crusty bread, or steamed green beans.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips for Success
- Don't overcook the chicken. Overcooked chicken will be dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Don't overcrowd the baking dish. Allow for some space between the chicken pieces for even cooking.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Feel free to add more herbs, spices, or salt and pepper to your liking.
This Dump and Bake Tuscan Chicken with Orzo is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its simplicity, delicious flavors, and minimal cleanup make it a perfect weeknight meal choice for families and busy individuals alike. Enjoy!
