Marry Me Chicken Orzo Bake

Ingredients

• 6 boneless (skinless chicken thighs (about 2 lbs / 1 kilogram))
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion (finely diced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped, 4 oz / 120–130 grams)
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1½ cups orzo (risoni) (9 oz / 260 grams)
• 3½ cups chicken stock (reserve ½ cup)
• ¾ cup light cream (e.g., half-and-half or light cooking cream) (5 fl oz / 150 ml )
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (2 oz / 50–60 grams)
• Pinch of chili flakes (optional)
• Extra salt to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish