Ingredients
Method
- Warm olive oil in a Dutch oven set over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and sear until lightly browned. Incorporate the minced garlic, cooking for about 30 seconds until aromatic. Blend in the tomato paste and sun-dried tomatoes, stirring to meld the flavors.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Season with basil, salt, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Add the orzo pasta and lower the heat to a simmer. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the pasta reaches a tender consistency.
- Reduce the heat further and stir in the chopped spinach, cream cheese, and Parmesan. Continue cooking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, stirring frequently until the cheeses fully melt and the broth achieves a smooth, creamy texture.
Notes
Chicken thighs, tenderloins, or rotisserie chicken may replace the chicken breasts. If using rotisserie chicken, add it with the spinach during the final step. For a slow cooker version, combine the chicken, garlic, tomato paste, sun-dried tomatoes, broth, cream, and seasonings in the cooker. Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, then incorporate orzo, spinach, cream cheese, and Parmesan, allowing the pasta to cook and the cheeses to melt. Enhance the flavor with diced onions or mushrooms if desired, and adjust seasoning with herbs such as thyme, oregano, or rosemary. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, reheating gently and adding extra broth or cream as needed to maintain a creamy consistency.