Marry Me Chicken Orzo

This Marry Me Chicken Orzo recipe is everything you want in a weeknight dinner It’s easy to make, comforting, and packed with flavor This one-pot meal uses skinless chicken breast, dry orzo pasta, and a rich creamy sun-dried tomato sauce loaded with garlic Italian seasoning and parmesan cheese It’s perfect for busy evenings or any time you want a cozy meal with minimal cleanup

I first tried this recipe on a hectic weeknight and loved how everything cooked together simply in one pan Now it’s a regular on my dinner rotation especially when I want something filling but fuss-free

Ingredients

• Large boneless skinless chicken breasts: for tender juicy meat
• Olive oil: to sauté and build flavor
• Paprika: adds warmth and mild smokiness choose good quality for best taste
• Onion powder and garlic powder: help season the chicken thoroughly
• Italian seasoning: brings classic herb flavors like oregano and basil
• Salt and black pepper: to taste essential for balancing flavors
• Sun-dried tomatoes: provide sweet tangy depth concentrate from real fruit
• Minced garlic: for freshness and pungency release while cooking
• Chicken broth: forms the base of the sauce choose low sodium if preferred
• Heavy whipping cream: makes the sauce rich and luscious
• Orzo pasta: because it cooks quickly and soaks up the sauce perfectly
• Baby spinach: adds a pop of color and fresh leafy texture
• Parmesan cheese: for umami and creamy finish grate fresh if possible for best melt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Chicken and Seasonings:

Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet Add diced chicken breast then sprinkle paprika onion powder garlic powder Italian seasoning salt and pepper Cook for 5 minutes stirring occasionally until the chicken is browned Add sun-dried tomatoes and continue cooking 4 more minutes Stir in minced garlic during the last minute to avoid burning and release aroma

Simmer the Orzo:

Pour chicken broth over the chicken and stir in the dry orzo Stir well scraping up any browned bits on the pan bottom This adds great flavor Bring to a gentle simmer Cook uncovered following package times until the orzo is just tender but still firm to the bite usually about 8 to 10 minutes

Create the Creamy Sauce:

Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream baby spinach and freshly grated parmesan Continue cooking and stirring until spinach wilts and the sauce thickens slightly Taste and adjust seasoning Serve immediately for best flavor and texture

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My favorite part of this dish is definitely the sun-dried tomatoes They bring just the right amount of tang and sweetness that balances so nicely with the creamy parmesan sauce I remember the first time I made this my kids went back for seconds three times which totally made my day

Storage Tips

Cool leftovers completely before transferring to an airtight container Store in the refrigerator for up to four days Avoid freezing as the creamy sauce can separate when thawed Reheat on the stovetop gently adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce or microwave in short bursts stirring in between

Ingredient Substitutions

• Use shredded rotisserie chicken for a shortcut that saves time
• Swap heavy cream with whole milk or coconut milk to lighten the dish while maintaining creaminess
• Try kale or swiss chard instead of spinach for a different green and texture

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette for contrast
• Add crusty garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce
• Pair with steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli to round out the meal

Pro Tips

• Toast your spices lightly before adding chicken to unlock deeper flavors
• Do not skip stirring often while simmering orzo to prevent sticking or burning at the bottom
• If sauce thickens too much add extra broth gradually until desired consistency is reached

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of fresh chicken?

Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken works well and reduces cooking time while keeping the dish flavorful.

→ How do I make the sauce creamier or thinner?

Add more parmesan cheese or simmer longer to thicken; add a splash of water or chicken stock to loosen the sauce.

→ Is it possible to substitute heavy cream for a lighter option?

Whole milk or coconut milk can replace heavy cream for a lighter texture while maintaining creaminess.

→ What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water to restore texture.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Freezing is not recommended as the creamy sauce may separate when thawed, affecting texture and flavor.