Name: Marry Me Chicken Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Olive oil; Garlic; Sun-dried tomatoes; Italian seasoning; Paprika; Kosher salt; Ground black pepper; Orzo; Chicken broth; Full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream; Fresh spinach; Parmesan cheese

I can’t tell you how much I’ve fallen in love with this recipe for Marry Me Chicken Orzo! The first time I made it, I knew it was a keeper. The tender chicken paired with the creamy, sun-dried tomato sauce and perfectly cooked orzo made my taste buds sing.

What’s even better? It all comes together in one pan, making cleanup an absolute breeze. This dish has quickly become my go-to for cozy weeknight dinners, and every single time I make it, I get requests for seconds (sometimes thirds!).

If you’re looking for a meal that feels indulgent yet easy to whip up, you’re going to adore this recipe. Trust me, this one is a winner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

It’s Easy to Prepare

This one-pan wonder means no juggling between pots and pans. Simplicity is key, and you can have it ready without breaking a sweat.

Perfect for Weeknights

The short cooking time makes it an ideal option when you need a fuss-free dinner after a long day.

Rich, Creamy Flavor

The sun-dried tomato sauce adds an irresistible tanginess, while the cream makes it so indulgent that every bite feels luxurious.

Customizable to Your Needs

Whether you need dairy-free or want to try fun add-ins like mushrooms or chili flakes, this recipe can be easily adapted to your taste.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Olive oil
Garlic
Sun-dried tomatoes
Italian seasoning
Paprika
Kosher salt
Ground black pepper
Orzo
Chicken broth
Full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream
Fresh spinach
Parmesan cheese

Variations

Experimenting with substitutions or add-ons can take this dish to the next level!

Dairy-Free: Swap the Parmesan for a plant-based alternative, and use dairy-free cream for that silky consistency.
Boost in Veggies: Add mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor.
Heat Things Up: Sprinkle in some red chili flakes or smoked paprika to give it a spicy twist.

Equipment You Need

Large skillet or sauté pan: For cooking everything in one pan.
Wooden spoon: To stir without scratching your pan.
Grater: For freshly grating Parmesan cheese.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure perfect measurements.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Orzo?

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients 🥣

Start by patting your chicken breasts dry and cutting them into bite-sized cubes. It helps the chicken cook quickly and evenly. Crush or mince your garlic, and make sure your sun-dried tomatoes are drained and ready to go.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken 🍗

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the chicken pieces. Sear for 2-3 minutes until the edges turn golden. This gives it that beautiful, slightly crispy texture.

Step 3: Add Aromatics and Seasonings 🌿

Toss in the minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, kosher salt, and pepper. Stir well and let the spices infuse into the chicken for another 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo 🍝

Add the orzo and then pour in the chicken broth. Stir everything together, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cover. Allow the orzo to cook for about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick to the pan.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce 🥬

Uncover the skillet and pour in the coconut milk or heavy cream. Toss in the fresh spinach, stirring until it wilts down beautifully. Mix in the Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, making it extra creamy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy! 🌟

Take the pan off the heat, give everything one last stir, and serve immediately. For added flair, garnish with more Parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Skip the Stirring: Stir the orzo occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
Fresh is Best: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor.
Customize the Liquid: If you prefer your dish less saucy, reduce the chicken broth slightly.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Orzo?

Serve this dish warm and direct from the pan for the ultimate cozy presentation. You can sprinkle additional Parmesan or even drizzle a bit of olive oil for that added restaurant-style touch. Pair it with a crisp green salad or a side of garlic bread to round out the meal.

For special occasions, plate the chicken and orzo, then top it with fresh basil leaves or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a pop of color and flavor.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutrition highlights per serving (approximate):

Calories: 420
Protein: 36g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 18g

Make Ahead and Storage

This dish is excellent for meal prep or leftovers. It tastes just as amazing (sometimes even better) the next day!

Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it creamy. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months, though be mindful that the texture of the orzo may soften slightly when reheated.

Whether you’re impressing guests or simply treating yourself, this Marry Me Chicken Orzo ticks all the right boxes. It’s simple, flavorful, and destined to become a staple in your kitchen. Time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking!