In a braiser, skillet or dutch oven with a lid, heat oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, turn to medium heat and add the tomatoes and cover the pot with a lid. Cook on medium heat for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes just start to burst.
When the tomatoes are starting to burst, add the sliced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt and chili flakes and stir. Keep at a simmer, on medium-low heat, stirring often for about 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes start to break down and their juices release, crushing the tomatoes with the back of a spoon or fork to break them all down.
Stir the orzo into the tomato mixture and then add in the broth and stir. Turn up the heat to high and bring to a boil. Once boiling, turn to medium-low heat and keep at a simmer with the lid mostly on. Stir every 3-4 minutes to keep the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Cook for about 10-12 minutes or until most of the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is cooked to al dente.
Stir in the cream and butter and cook for 1 more minute.
Remove the pot from the heat, stir in the lemon juice, freshly grated parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Serve immediately with more parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.
Notes
Serve as a main dish in big bowls for 2-3 people or make this as a tasty side for 4 people paired with grilled chicken or Italian or chicken sausage.