If you’re searching for a dish that’s as swoon-worthy as its name promises, Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} is about to become your new weeknight hero. Picture tender, perfectly seasoned chicken nestled into creamy orzo that’s been kissed by sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, and just a hint of fresh basil. Everything melds together in one pot, transforming the humble dinner routine into something totally crave-worthy. With rich flavors and minimal cleanup, it’s no wonder this recipe has captured hearts all over social media—it’s that meal you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part about Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} is that it relies on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, but each one plays a key role in building irresistible flavor and texture. Here’s what makes this one-pot wonder shine:
- Chicken breasts or thighs: Choose your favorite cut for juicy, tender bites that soak up all the sauce.
- Salt and black pepper: Basic but essential—you’ll season the chicken perfectly at the start.
- Garlic powder: Adds a gentle, aromatic depth to the chicken’s crust and overall flavor.
- Italian seasoning: Brings together notes of herbs like oregano and basil for a classic savory background.
- Olive oil: Gives everything a golden, flavorful sauté and adds a touch of richness.
- Fresh garlic (minced): A must for fragrance and a punch of real flavor right from the start.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Their tangy sweetness infuses the orzo and cream with a lovely, Mediterranean pop.
- Orzo pasta (uncooked): This rice-shaped pasta cooks up tender and creamy right in the pan—no separate pot required.
- Chicken broth: Imparts savory depth and keeps the orzo full of rich, comforting flavor.
- Heavy cream: Delivers that luscious, silky texture that makes the sauce truly special.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a subtle kick, just a sprinkle is all you need.
- Parmesan cheese (grated): Adds salty, nutty richness and helps thicken the sauce into creamy perfection.
- Fresh basil or parsley (chopped): Brings freshness and a burst of color to the finished dish.
- Extra Parmesan and basil: A finishing touch that makes each serving look and taste extra special.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by generously seasoning your chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Heat up the olive oil in a deep skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. When it’s shimmering, add your chicken and let it sear for about 4–5 minutes per side. You want a lovely golden crust! Don’t worry if the chicken isn’t fully cooked yet—it’ll finish cooking in the sauce later. Once done, set the chicken aside on a plate and get ready for the next layer of flavor.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
With those flavorful chicken bits left in the pan, toss in your minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Stir and sauté for 1–2 minutes, just until the garlic is ultra fragrant and your kitchen smells absolutely irresistible. This step infuses the whole base with garlicky, tangy richness.
Step 3: Toast the Orzo
Pour your uncooked orzo directly into the pan with the tomatoes and garlic. Give it a quick stir and let it toast for about 1 minute. This little trick adds a hint of nuttiness and helps the pasta keep its texture during simmering.
Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer
Gently pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a soft simmer. Lower the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and let the orzo bubble away for 7–8 minutes, giving it a stir now and then. This step is where the pasta drinks up all that delicious savory flavor while becoming wonderfully tender.
Step 5: Creamy Finish and Chicken Reunion
Now it’s time to stir in the heavy cream, red pepper flakes (if using), and Parmesan. Mix until the sauce looks dreamy and creamy, then nestle the chicken pieces back into the pan—slice them beforehand if you like quicker cooking and easier scooping later on! Let everything gently simmer together for an additional 5–7 minutes, until the orzo is perfectly soft and the chicken is cooked through. Take it off the heat, sprinkle the fresh basil or parsley over the top, and you’re ready to serve up pure comfort.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}
Garnishes
For a picture-perfect finish, scatter extra grated Parmesan and fresh basil (or parsley) across the top. They add vibrant color and a last hit of flavor that makes every bite feel restaurant-worthy. If you’re feeling fancy, a light drizzle of good olive oil or a crack of freshly ground black pepper is the chef’s kiss.
Side Dishes
Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} is satisfying on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, simple roasted asparagus, or warm, crusty bread. The bread is actually perfect for mopping up that luscious sauce—trust me, you won’t want to leave a drop behind!
Creative Ways to Present
Make it appetizer-friendly by slicing the chicken and serving the orzo in small ramekins for an impressive starter. For family meals, bring the whole skillet to the table and let everyone help themselves—it’s a cozy touch that always gets rave reviews. You can even spoon the orzo onto a big platter and arrange the chicken artfully on top, showered with plenty of fresh herbs for a dinner party presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftovers cool to room temperature, then transfer them into an airtight container. Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prepping or quick lunches. The flavors deepen a bit overnight, making the leftovers especially tasty!
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this dish can be frozen! For best results, store portions in individual containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the cream sauce might separate a touch after thawing, but a gentle reheat will bring it mostly back together.
Reheating
To reheat, warm leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring the sauce back to its silky self. Stir frequently and avoid high heat, and your Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} will taste just as dreamy as day one!
FAQs
Can I make Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} dairy free?
Yes, you can swap the heavy cream for a non-dairy alternative such as coconut cream or unsweetened oat cream, and use a plant-based Parmesan substitute. The sauce will taste slightly different but will still be creamy and satisfying.
What can I use instead of orzo?
If you don’t have orzo on hand, try substituting with another small pasta shape like ditalini, pastina, or even small rice like arborio. Just watch the cooking time and liquid level, as different shapes may need a minute or two more (or less) to reach perfect tenderness.
Is Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} spicy?
The dish only has a mild kick thanks to optional red pepper flakes, so it’s very family-friendly. Omit the red pepper flakes if you prefer zero heat, or amp them up if you love a little more spice.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Stir fresh baby spinach, chopped kale, or even some peas into the pot a few minutes before serving. They’ll add color, nutrition, and make the meal even heartier without changing the basic flavor profile.
Can Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} be made gluten free?
You can use gluten-free orzo or a small gluten-free pasta in place of traditional orzo. Just keep an eye on the cook time and check for tenderness—otherwise the recipe works the same!
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to wow every single person at your table (including yourself), Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} is the answer. It’s hearty, creamy, and deeply flavorful, all with just one pan to wash at the end. Don’t be surprised if this becomes a regular in your meal rotation—once you try it, you’ll understand why everyone falls in love!
Print
Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a delightful one-pot wonder that combines tender chicken, flavorful sun-dried tomatoes, creamy orzo pasta, and a hint of Parmesan. This easy and comforting dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Orzo:
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
1 cup orzo pasta (uncooked)
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (or parsley)
extra Parmesan and basil for garnish
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the Orzo: Sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, then add orzo and toast. Pour in chicken broth, simmer, and cook for 7–8 minutes.
- Finish the Dish: Stir in heavy cream, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan. Return chicken to the pan and simmer for another 5–7 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil and serve.
Notes
- You can slice the chicken before returning it to the pan for faster cooking and easier serving.
- Add spinach during the last few minutes for extra greens.
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