Description

Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a creamy, comforting one-pot meal that combines tender chicken thighs or breasts with flavorful sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Cooked with orzo pasta in a luscious blend of chicken broth and heavy cream, this skillet dish is garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for a quick, satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasonings

4 boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons olive oil

Orzo and Sauce

3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Vegetables and Garnish

1 cup baby spinach (optional)
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Season the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken thighs or breasts with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to enhance flavor.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and mostly cooked through. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: Reduce heat to medium, add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the same pan. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Toast Orzo and Add Seasoning: Stir in Italian seasoning and uncooked orzo, toasting for about 1 minute to enhance the pasta’s flavor.
Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a low simmer, then reduce heat to low.
Cook with Chicken: Nestle the seared chicken back into the pan, cover, and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Ensure the orzo is tender and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Finish the Dish: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if using. Add the baby spinach and cook until wilted.
Garnish and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot for a creamy, flavorful meal.

Notes

Swap chicken thighs for breasts if preferred for a leaner option.
Add mushrooms, peas, or other vegetables to boost nutrition and flavor.
The dish thickens as it cools; add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen when reheating.
Using low-sodium broth helps control the salt content.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 580
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 620mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 38g
Cholesterol: 130mg