Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Alright, buckle up because Marry Me Chicken Orzo is about to become your new favorite dish. If you’ve ever had a meal so good that you could imagine proposing to it (okay, maybe that’s just me!), this is that dish. Tender, juicy chicken simmered in a dreamy creamy sauce with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan, paired with orzo pasta that soaks up all that delicious goodness—trust me, it’s love at first bite.

This dish is rich and comforting, but still light enough for a weekday meal that will make you feel like you’re dining in an upscale restaurant. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing someone special, this recipe is sure to wow. It’s everything you want in a dinner: flavorful, easy, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Ridiculously Flavorful

From the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to the creamy sauce with Parmesan, every bite of this dish is packed with so much flavor. The chicken just melts into the sauce, and the orzo soaks up all the magic.

Easy to Make

This one-pan dish comes together in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when you still want something impressive. Plus, there’s minimal cleanup—always a win in my book!

Comforting Yet Light

It’s rich and creamy, but the orzo and chicken keep it from feeling too heavy. It’s the perfect balance between indulgence and freshness.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or preparing for a dinner party, Marry Me Chicken Orzo fits the bill. It has that special “wow factor” but is simple enough for an everyday meal.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish:

Chicken Breasts

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the ideal choice. They cook up tender and juicy, and when sliced, they absorb all the delicious flavors from the sauce.

Orzo

Orzo is the perfect pasta for this dish because it’s small, tender, and soaks up all the creamy sauce. It’s a great alternative to traditional pasta and adds a little extra heartiness to the meal.

Sun-Dried Tomatoes

These little bursts of flavor add a tangy, slightly sweet note that balances the richness of the creamy sauce. They’re a must!

Heavy Cream

Heavy cream is what makes the sauce rich and creamy. It’s the magic ingredient that gives the dish its indulgent texture.

Garlic

A generous amount of garlic is essential here! It adds a savory depth of flavor that makes this dish so irresistible.

Parmesan Cheese

Freshly grated Parmesan is the key to giving the sauce that extra creamy, cheesy richness.

Chicken Broth

The chicken broth helps deglaze the pan and provides a savory base for the sauce, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Olive Oil

You’ll need olive oil to sear the chicken and cook the garlic, giving everything a golden, flavorful foundation.

Fresh Herbs

Fresh basil or parsley adds a touch of brightness to the dish and makes it look even more appetizing.

Salt and Pepper

A pinch of salt and freshly cracked pepper will help season the chicken and the sauce perfectly.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to dive into this flavorful dish? Here’s how to bring Marry Me Chicken Orzo to life:

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and sear it for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add a little more olive oil if necessary. Toss in the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant. You want the garlic to soften and infuse the oil without burning.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Add the chicken broth to the skillet, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Bring the broth to a simmer, then stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until everything is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo

Add the orzo to the skillet and stir it into the sauce. Cover the pan and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed some of the sauce. If it’s looking a little dry, add a splash of extra chicken broth or water.

Step 5: Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Toss in the sun-dried tomatoes and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing them to soften and infuse the sauce with their delicious flavor.

Step 6: Slice the Chicken

While the orzo is cooking, slice the seared chicken into thin strips. Once the orzo is done, return the chicken to the skillet and stir it through, letting it warm up in the creamy sauce.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Top the dish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately, and enjoy the flavors of this irresistibly creamy dish!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 550
Fat: 27g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 38g
Sodium: 620mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Orzo

This dish is hearty and flavorful on its own, but here are some side ideas to elevate the meal:

Roasted Vegetables

Pair it with some roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or zucchini for a light, healthy side that adds texture and color to your plate.

Garlic Bread

Garlic bread, warm and crusty, is the perfect side to scoop up any extra creamy sauce left on your plate.

Green Salad

A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help cut through the richness of the creamy orzo and add a refreshing balance to the meal.

Steamed Asparagus

If you’re in the mood for something a little more elegant, steamed asparagus with a drizzle of lemon juice would pair perfectly with the creamy chicken orzo.

Additional Tips

Add Some Spice

If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce for an extra kick.

Make It Ahead

You can make the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Store the components separately in the fridge and assemble the dish when you’re ready to serve.

Use Chicken Thighs

If you prefer a richer flavor, you can swap the chicken breasts for bone-in, skinless chicken thighs. They’ll add a bit more flavor and tenderness to the dish.

Lighten It Up

If you want a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or milk, and use less cheese.

Leftover Love

This dish makes for great leftovers! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a little extra chicken broth to loosen the sauce.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A1: Absolutely! You can use any small pasta like penne or farfalle. Just keep in mind that the sauce-to-pasta ratio might change depending on the shape.

Q2: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A2: Yes! You can skip the chicken and add extra veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or artichokes. A plant-based protein like tofu would also be a great addition.

Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A3: Yes! You can cook the chicken and make the sauce in advance. Just store the components separately and combine them when you’re ready to serve.

Q4: How do I reheat leftovers?
A4: Reheat the chicken orzo in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until warmed through.

Q5: Can I freeze this dish?
A5: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you must freeze it, store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

Q6: What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?
A6: If you’re not a fan of sun-dried tomatoes, you can use fresh cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a different flavor profile.

Q7: Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
A7: Yes! Half-and-half can be used for a lighter version of the sauce, but it may not be as rich and creamy as the full-fat heavy cream.

Q8: How can I make this dish spicier?
A8: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce to bring the heat. You can also drizzle some sriracha or hot sauce on top before serving.

Q9: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A9: If you don’t have Parmesan, you can use Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese. Just be sure to use a hard, salty cheese to replicate that savory bite.

Q10: Can I use bone-in chicken?
A10: Yes, you can use bone-in chicken. Just be sure to cook it longer until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and remove the bones before slicing.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Orzo is the perfect dish to fall in love with. It’s creamy, flavorful, and irresistibly comforting. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving a comforting weeknight meal, this recipe has you covered. The tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked orzo make it an absolute showstopper. Trust me, this dish is going to steal your heart (and your tastebuds). Enjoy!

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