Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Discover the irresistible Marry Me Chicken Orzo recipe that combines tender chicken with a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. A Dish Worth Saying ‘I Do’ To!

If you’re looking for a meal that’s creamy, flavorful, and utterly irresistible, then Marry Me Chicken Orzo is your answer! Inspired by the classic Marry Me Chicken recipe, this version swaps traditional pasta for orzo, creating a rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for date nights, family dinners, or any time you need a comforting meal.

Legend has it that this popular recipe is so delicious, it could inspire a marriage proposal! The velvety sauce packed with garlic and sun-dried tomatoes combined with creamy orzo and juicy chicken is simply love at first bite.

Looking for another sundried tomato recipe for your dinner table? Check out this easy creamy tuscan chicken recipe with sundried tomatoes!

Why We Love this Marry Me Chicken Orzo Recipe

Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a dish that captures hearts (and stomachs) for good reason! Here’s why this great recipe
is an absolute favorite:

1. Creamy, Comforting Goodness

The rich, velvety sauce made with heavy cream, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes is pure comfort food. Every bite feels indulgent and satisfying, making it perfect for cozy nights in.

2. One-Pan Wonder

Who doesn’t love a meal that minimizes cleanup? Everything – from searing the chicken to simmering the orzo – happens in a single skillet, making this an easy, hassle-free dish. It’s a great dish for a busy weeknight!

3. A Perfect Balance of Flavors

• Savory: The chicken, Parmesan, and garlic provide a deep, umami-rich taste.
• Tangy: Sun-dried tomatoes add a pop of acidity that keeps the dish from feeling too heavy.
• Spicy (Optional): Red pepper flakes bring a gentle heat that enhances the flavors.

4. It’s Impressive, Yet Easy

Despite tasting like a restaurant-quality dish, Marry Me Chicken Orzo is surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re cooking for a date night, family dinner, or a special occasion, this meal is guaranteed to wow your guests with minimal effort.

5. Tender Chicken & Flavor-Soaked Orzo

The orzo absorbs all the creamy, garlicky goodness of the sauce, ensuring that every spoonful is packed with flavor. Meanwhile, the seared chicken stays juicy and tender, making it the perfect protein to pair with the pasta.

6. Versatile & Customizable

• Want more veggies? Add spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes.
• Prefer a lighter version? Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Need more protein? Toss in some shrimp or pancetta.

7. Romantic & Legendary

There’s a reason why it’s called Marry Me Chicken! Legend has it that this dish is so irresistible, it could inspire a marriage proposal. Whether you believe the story or not, one thing is certain – this meal has a way of making people fall in love with it!

Marry Me Chicken Orzo is creamy, flavorful, and comforting – an easy-to-make yet elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Try it once, and it just might become your new favorite meal!

Key Ingredients for this One-Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Chicken

The main protein of the dish, tender chicken breasts are perfectly juicy when cooked in the creamy sauce. You can also use chicken thighs for extra flavor and moisture.

Orzo

Instead of traditional pasta or rice, hearty orzo is used for its small, rice-like texture that absorbs the sauce beautifully, making each bite rich and flavorful.

Olive Oil

Used for searing the chicken, giving it a golden-brown crust that adds depth to the dish.

Chicken Broth

Chicken Broth adds moisture and flavor to the orzo, preventing it from becoming too thick while also enhancing the savory base of the dish. You could also use chicken stock.

Heavy Cream

Heavy Cream is the key to achieving a luscious, cream sauce that coats the orzo and chicken perfectly.

Parmesan Cheese

Adds a rich, nutty, umami flavor that deepens the overall taste of the dish. It also helps thicken the sauce. Freshly-grated parmesan cheese is best.

Garlic

A must-have for any creamy, savory dish, garlic enhances the sauce with its bold, aromatic flavor.

Garlic Powder

While fresh garlic provides a strong, aromatic punch, garlic powder adds an extra layer of deep, mellow garlic flavor that evenly distributes throughout the dish, ensuring every bite is infused with its warmth.

Italian Seasoning

A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme brings classic Mediterranean flavors to the dish.

Sundried Tomatoes

These provide a tangy, slightly sweet depth of flavor that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Fresh Spinach

Adds a pop of color and a slight earthiness while increasing the dish’s nutritional value.

Red Pepper Flakes

Adds a touch of heat to balance the richness of the sauce. You can adjust or omit based on your spice preference.

Fresh Basil

Brightens up the final dish with fresh, aromatic flavor and makes it look extra appetizing.

Additional Ingredients

• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Sear the Chicken:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • In a bowl, season the skinless chicken breast or chicken thighs with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside (they’ll finish cooking later).

1. Make the Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant.
   • Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and dry orzo pasta, toasting slightly for added flavor.
   • Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well.

1. Simmer to Perfection:
   • Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the creamy sauce.
   • Cover and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes while the pasta cooks, the orzo is tender and the chicken is cooked through.

1. Add Final Touches:
   • Stir in Parmesan cheese and spinach, letting the spinach wilt.
   • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
2. Serve and Enjoy!
   • Garnish with extra basil and Parmesan. Serve straight from the skillet with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad!

Additional Recipes To Try

Easy Loaded Smash Burger Bowl – Enjoy the classic smash burger taste without the carbs!

Instant Pot Cherry Tomato Risotto – a flavorful twist on classic risotto with this easy InstantPot recipe for cherry tomato risotto. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Basil Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Baked Meatballs – Enjoy a quick and easy dinner with a delicious basil pesto sauce and juicy baked meatballs.

So, whether you’re trying to impress a date or just want a cozy night in, Marry Me Chicken Orzo is the dish you need. Who knows? It might just lead to a proposal!

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