Description
Easy Tuscan Chicken Orzo Bake is a comforting and flavorful casserole featuring tender chicken, smoky smoked turkey bacon, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and melted plant-based cheese. This one-pan bake blends creamy richness and vibrant Italian flavors with an easy preparation, making it perfect for family meals or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 4 slices smoked turkey bacon, chopped into small strips
Pasta and Vegetables
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach, rinsed
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Sauces
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Dairy and Additives
- 1 cup shredded plant-based cheese
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
Herbs and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and chop the smoked turkey bacon into small strips. Rinse the spinach if fresh, finely chop the sun-dried tomatoes, mince the garlic, and dice the onion to build your flavor base.
- Cook the Smoked Turkey Bacon and Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook smoked turkey bacon until crisp, then remove and set aside. In the same pan, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant and softened. Add the chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned on all sides.
- Add Orzo and Liquids: Stir in the orzo pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth combined with apple cider vinegar (natural) and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Sprinkle in the natural gelling agent to help thicken the sauce as it cooks and stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Bake the Dish: Transfer the mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle the crispy smoked turkey bacon on top and generously cover with shredded plant-based cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly and the orzo is tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the bake from the oven and add fresh herbs such as chopped basil and thyme. Let it cool slightly for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the dish to set perfectly.
Notes
- Choose quality orzo that holds its shape during cooking to prevent mushiness.
- Do not overcook the chicken; sear just until golden to keep it juicy after baking.
- Use fresh herbs to add vibrant aroma and brighten the flavors before serving.
- Let the bake rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to enhance texture and flavor melding.
- Adjust liquid amounts carefully as orzo absorbs liquid quickly for perfect creaminess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Tuscan chicken, orzo bake, smoked turkey bacon, plant-based cheese, Italian casserole, comforting dinner, gluten-free dinner
