Description
Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a creamy, flavorful one-pot recipe featuring tender chicken breasts seared to perfection and simmered with orzo pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs. This comforting dish combines the richness of heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and aromatic spices, finished with fresh spinach and basil, making it an ideal weeknight meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Sauce and Orzo
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Greens and Garnishes
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika to enhance flavor and create a savory crust.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and partially cooked through, then remove and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant, ensuring the garlic doesn’t burn.
- Add Sun-dried Tomatoes and Liquids: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to meld the flavors.
- Cook Orzo and Seasonings: Add the orzo pasta along with dried oregano, thyme, and Italian seasoning. Stir well and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed much of the liquid.
- Return Chicken and Finish Cooking: Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet. Cover and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), ensuring it is fully cooked and tender.
- Add Parmesan and Spinach: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh spinach. Let the spinach wilt into the creamy sauce for a minute or two, enhancing texture and nutrition.
- Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese on top for a bright, fresh finish.
- Serve: Serve the Marry Me Chicken Orzo warm, spooning the creamy orzo and tender chicken onto plates, and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts if you prefer darker meat, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add freshly chopped chili peppers.
- Use low-fat cream or substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version, but the sauce may be less rich.
- Be careful not to overcook the orzo to maintain a pleasant, slightly chewy texture.
- If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, chopped roasted red peppers can be a good alternative.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
