Dinner

Creamy Tuscan Orzo with Grilled Chicken and Scallops

Name: Creamy Tuscan Orzo with Grilled Chicken and Scallops
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 8 large sea scallops; 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 2 cups baby spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

ByMariem August 18, 2025

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Creamy Tuscan Orzo with Grilled Chicken and Scallops is an elegant yet comforting dish featuring tender orzo pasta simmered in a garlic cream sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, topped with perfectly grilled chicken and seared scallops. It’s a refined one-plate meal ideal for special occasions or elevated everyday dining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the elegance of seafood and grilled chicken with the heartiness of creamy pasta, offering a luxurious balance of flavor and texture. The orzo acts as a creamy risotto-like base, while the Tuscan-inspired ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and spinach enhance the dish with warmth and depth. It’s a versatile, restaurant-quality meal made right in your kitchen.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the orzo:

Orzo pasta
Garlic, minced
Onion, finely chopped
Chicken broth
Heavy cream
Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
Fresh spinach
Parmesan cheese, grated
Olive oil or butter
Salt and pepper to taste

For the grilled chicken and scallops:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Sea scallops, cleaned and patted dry
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Italian seasoning
Garlic powder
Salt and pepper

directions

Season the chicken breasts and scallops with olive oil, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Grill the chicken over medium-high heat for 5–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Set aside and rest.
Sear the scallops in a hot skillet for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown and opaque in the center. Set aside.
In a large pan, sauté garlic and onion in olive oil until soft.
Add the orzo and toast slightly, stirring frequently.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Stir in heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach. Simmer until the sauce thickens and spinach wilts.
Add grated parmesan and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Plate the creamy orzo and top with sliced grilled chicken and scallops. Garnish with additional cheese or herbs if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 40–45 minutes

Variations

Swap scallops with shrimp for an easier alternative
Use grilled salmon instead of chicken for a pescatarian version
Add roasted red peppers for a smokier flavor
Replace spinach with kale or arugula for a different green
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid reheating scallops for too long, as they can become rubbery. This dish is not ideal for freezing due to the cream sauce and seafood.

FAQs

Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and pat them completely dry before searing to achieve a proper golden crust.

Is it necessary to grill the chicken?
Grilling adds flavor, but you can also pan-sear or bake the chicken if preferred.

Can I cook the orzo ahead of time?
For best texture, cook the orzo fresh. If making ahead, undercook slightly and finish in the sauce when reheating.

What’s a good substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?
Roasted red peppers or cherry tomatoes can work, though they’ll offer a different flavor profile.

How do I avoid overcooking the scallops?
Sear on high heat for just 1–2 minutes per side. The center should be opaque but still tender.

Can I make this dish without cream?
You can substitute with a dairy-free cream alternative or use a combination of milk and a thickener, though the result will be lighter.

What pasta can I use instead of orzo?
Small pasta shapes like ditalini or pearl couscous can be used, but cooking times may vary.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written. Use gluten-free orzo or another gluten-free pasta to adapt the recipe.

What sides go well with this dish?
A light green salad or steamed vegetables pair nicely to balance the richness of the orzo.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, just slice and warm it before serving. Add it at the end to avoid drying it out.

Conclusion

Creamy Tuscan Orzo with Grilled Chicken and Scallops is a luxurious and flavorful dish that transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet experience. With tender orzo, rich sauce, and perfectly cooked proteins, it’s a complete meal that impresses on any occasion. Whether for a romantic dinner or a weekend indulgence, this recipe delivers both comfort and sophistication.