Low Carb Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Step by Step Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 400°F. Pat the chicken dry if needed, then place in a large bowl with half the avocado oil and the remaining marinade seasonings. Mix until evenly coated. Marinate for 10 minutes while you prepare the skillet and pasta ingredients.

   For this step

   • 3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
   • 2 tablespoons avocado oil
   • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
   • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
   • 1 teaspoon salt
   • 1/2 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
   • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2. 2

   Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium high heat. Add the remaining avocado oil. Working in batches with space between the pieces, sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, until a golden crust forms. Transfer the seared pieces to a plate as you work. Return all the chicken to the skillet and bake for about 10 minutes, until the thickest part reaches 165°F. Transfer the cooked chicken to a clean plate, cover loosely with foil and set aside while making the pasta.

3. 3

   To the skillet, add butter and melt over medium heat. Add diced onion, garlic, sun dried tomatoes, garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Stirring occasionally, cook until onions are translucent.

   For this step

   • 2 tablespoons butter
   • 1 small onion, finely diced
   • 4 cloves garlic minced
   • 7 oz jar sun dried tomatoes in oil, oil drained
   • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
   • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
4. 4

   Stir the lupini orzo into the vegetables and seasonings. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, until the orzo is tender and most of the broth has been absorbed or evaporated. Check occasionally and add a small splash of broth if it is drying out before becoming tender.

   For this step

   • 8 oz lupini orzo
   • 3 cups chicken broth
5. 5

   Stir in heavy cream and cheese. Then stir in spinach leaves, cover, and let cook for 1-2 minutes or until wilted. Remove from heat. Stir in basil and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper, then add in sliced chicken.

   For this step

   • 1/2 cup heavy cream
   • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
   • 3 cups baby spinach leaves
   • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
   • 1 tablespoon lemon juice