Description
Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a creamy, flavorful one-pot dish featuring tender seared chicken breasts simmered with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and herbs in a luscious parmesan-infused sauce alongside tender orzo pasta and fresh spinach. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe balances hearty protein with vibrant greens and Italian-inspired seasonings for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Cooking Base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
Liquid and Pasta
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup orzo pasta
Herbs and Cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 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 evenly with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika to enhance flavor and create a delicious crust when seared.
- Seal the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant to infuse the oil with flavor.
- Add tomatoes and liquids: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, then pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Cook the orzo: Add the orzo pasta along with dried oregano, thyme, and Italian seasoning. Stir well and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Finish cooking the chicken: Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet. Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 5 to 7 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Add cheese and spinach: Remove the lid, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh spinach. Allow the spinach to wilt in the warm sauce.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the dish with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese as garnish to add brightness and extra flavor.
- Enjoy: Serve the creamy Marry Me Chicken Orzo warm for a comforting, satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or casual entertaining.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter or lactose-free option, though it may affect creaminess.
- If sun-dried tomatoes are packed in oil, drain them well to avoid excess oiliness in the dish.
- Using a meat thermometer ensures the chicken is perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- For a touch of heat, adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or serve with a dash of hot sauce.
