Description
Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a creamy, one-pot dish featuring tender chicken in a rich sun-dried tomato parmesan sauce. Quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 small)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Flavorful Sauce
- In the same pan, add minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan.
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
Step 3: Cook the Orzo
- Add orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring to coat in the sauce.
- Return chicken to the pan, nestling it into the orzo mixture.
- Cover and let simmer on low heat for 12-15 minutes, or until orzo is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
- If using, stir in fresh spinach until wilted.
- Garnish with chopped basil and extra Parmesan before serving.
Notes
- Protein Swap: Use boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness or shrimp for a seafood twist.
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
- Vegetable Boost: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for more texture and nutrients.
- Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course,dinner
- Method: one pot,stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: Marry Me Chicken, One-Pot Dinner, Creamy Chicken Orzo, Easy Chicken Recipe, Weeknight Meal