Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a onepan meal that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and orzo pasta for a comforting dinner that comes together in just 25 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful without a lot of fuss. The combination of sundried tomatoes and spinach adds bright, fresh notes while the parmesan creates a luscious finish.

I first made this during a hectic week when I needed dinner on the table quickly. It was such a hit that my family asked for it again the very next night. Now it’s a staple whenever I want a fussfree but impressive dish.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: cut into bitesized pieces tender and cooks quickly making the dish hearty
• Salt pepper and garlic powder: used to season the chicken for a balanced savory base
• Oil from the sundried tomato jar: adds a subtle tomato essence to the chicken cooking process
• Fresh garlic: enhances the sauce with rich aromatic depth
• Sundried tomatoes: add a burst of tangysweet flavor essential to the recipe
• Italian seasoning: blends herbs for a classic taste profile
• Paprika: brings a warm smoky undertone
• Lowsodium chicken broth: balances the flavors without too much salt and provides cooking liquid for the orzo
• Orzo pasta: cooks quickly and absorbs the sauce giving a creamy texture
• Heavy cream: is key for the luscious sauce that coats every bite
• Baby spinach: adds a fresh leafy green element and nutrients
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese: melts beautifully to finish the dish and adds umami

Instructions

Season the Chicken:

In a mixing bowl combine the bitesized chicken pieces with salt pepper and garlic powder. Toss until well coated ensuring every piece has flavor.

Cook the Chicken:

Heat the oil from the sundried tomato jar in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot add the chicken pieces and cook for around 3 to 4 minutes stirring occasionally. The chicken will not be fully cooked yet at this stage.

Add Seasonings and Garlic:

To the skillet add the garlic sundried tomatoes Italian seasoning paprika salt and pepper. Stir well and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic at the end and cook just until fragrant about 30 seconds to avoid burning.

Add Broth and Orzo:

Pour in the lowsodium chicken broth and add the orzo pasta. Stir the mixture to combine all ingredients. Increase the heat to bring the liquid to a boil.

Simmer Covered:

Once boiling reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and let cook for 10 to 13 minutes stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking or burning on the bottom. Cook until the orzo is tender and has absorbed much of the liquid.

Finish with Cream and Greens:

Stir in the heavy cream baby spinach and parmesan cheese. Mix well until the spinach just wilts and the cheese melts creating a creamy sauce coating the chicken and pasta.

Serve:

Remove from the heat. Sprinkle extra parmesan cheese on top for garnish. Serve the dish hot straight from the skillet for best flavor and texture.

Using the oil from the sundried tomato jar to cook the chicken is a clever tip that adds a subtle flavor boost and reduces waste. One family dinner I remember clearly was when I brought this to a potluck—it disappeared quickly because everyone loved how creamy and flavorful it was.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy within three days for the best taste and texture. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to help maintain creaminess. Avoid freezing because the heavy cream can separate and change the sauce consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

Chicken thighs can replace chicken breasts for an even juicier result though they take slightly longer to cook. If you do not have sundried tomato oil reserve some olive oil for cooking. You can substitute vegetable broth or bone broth for chicken broth depending on preference or dietary needs. Parmesan can be swapped for Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up every bit of the creamy sauce. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans complement the richness of the dish nicely. A glass of crisp white wine pairs well for an elevated dinner.

This Marry Me Chicken Orzo delivers comforting flavor with minimal fuss. Serve hot and enjoy.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What sides go well with this dish?

Crusty bread, garlic bread, or a fresh side salad complement the creamy chicken and orzo well. Steamed vegetables also pair nicely.

→ Can I alter the flavor profile?

Yes, adding tomato paste intensifies the tomato taste, while red pepper flakes add a spicy kick. Vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms can bulk it up.

→ Is it possible to use other pasta types?

Orzo works best for its size and cooking time, but you can try gnocchi, rice, or larger pasta shapes; just adjust cooking liquids and times accordingly.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days for best quality.

→ Can this dish be frozen?

Freezing is not recommended due to the heavy cream, which may separate upon thawing and reheating.