Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Whenever I think of comfort food, the first dish that comes to mind is Marry Me Chicken Orzo. This recipe holds a special place in my heart, not just for its incredible flavor, but also for the memories it brings. I remember the first time I made it for my partner, who was utterly enchanted. The rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken mingled perfectly with the orzo, creating a dish that was simply irresistible. It was a chilly evening, and as the aroma filled the kitchen, we cuddled up together, savoring each bite and laughing as we fought over the last spoonful. That’s the magic of Marry Me Chicken Orzo—it turns an ordinary night into something unforgettable.

Ingredients Overview for Marry Me Chicken Orzo

The ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Orzo are carefully chosen to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The star of the dish is undoubtedly the chicken, which becomes beautifully tender as it cooks. The orzo adds a unique pasta twist, absorbing the rich sauce while providing a delightful chew. Fresh herbs like basil and spices contribute aromatics, while the combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese elevates the entire dish to creamy perfection.

• 1 pound (450g) chicken breasts diced into bite-size pieces – This is the main protein, ensuring the dish is hearty and satisfying.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Essential for seasoning the chicken and elevating the flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds a subtle kick to the dish.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – Imparts a warm, smoky flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Used for sautéing the chicken, adding a touch of richness.
• 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter divided – Enhances flavor and contributes to the creaminess of the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon tomato paste – Adds depth and richness to the overall sauce.
• ½ cup (85g) sundried tomatoes chopped – Offers a burst of tangy flavor and textural contrast.
• 3 cloves garlic minced – The aromatic base that enhances the dish’s profile.
• 1 ½ cups (285g) orzo uncooked (regular or whole wheat) – The unique pasta that absorbs the sauce and complements the chicken.
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – Delivers a hint of heat to balance the flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon dried oregano – A classic herb that adds complexity to the sauce.
• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme – Another aromatic herb that rounds out the flavor profile.
• 2 ½ cups (600ml) chicken stock – Provides moisture and depth to the dish.
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream (double cream in the UK) – The secret to the rich, creamy sauce.
• ½ cup (43g) Parmesan cheese grated – Adds a savory, cheesy flavor that completes the dish.
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves chopped – A fresh garnish that brightens the dish.

The Process for Making Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Making Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a joyful experience that involves simple steps and delicious flavors. You’ll love the way the kitchen fills with mouthwatering aromas as you cook. Let’s get started!

1. First, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken, seasoning it with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned. This step gives the chicken a beautiful golden color and locks in those tasty juices.
2. Next, remove the browned chicken to a plate and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Stir in the tomato paste, chopped sundried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. Now, it’s time to add the orzo. Toss in the orzo, crushed red pepper flakes, oregano, and thyme. Stir constantly for another 30 seconds to toast the orzo slightly, which enhances its flavor.
4. Pour in the chicken stock and heavy cream, then return the cooked chicken to the pan. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes. Stir every 1 to 2 minutes to ensure the orzo doesn’t stick to the pan. This is where the magic happens as the sauce thickens and the orzo absorbs all those delicious flavors.
5. When the orzo is tender, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the creamy sauce. This is the moment when everything comes together, and you can taste the richness of the dish.
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed—don’t hesitate to add a little more salt or pepper if you like! Finally, garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving, adding a pop of color and freshness.

Helpful Hints

Cooking is all about making the process enjoyable and easy. Here are some handy tips to help you out when making Marry Me Chicken Orzo.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days.
• Freezing: It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, as orzo does not freeze well.
• Pairing: Serve with a crisp salad or garlic bread to complement the rich flavors of the dish.
• Garnishing: Fresh herbs like basil and parsley not only enhance the flavor but also add a beautiful touch to your presentation.
• Cooking Tools: Make sure to have a good quality skillet to ensure even cooking and preventing sticking.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Orzo

• Family Dinner: This dish is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner with loved ones.
• Romantic Evening: Set the mood for a romantic dinner with candlelight and a glass of sparkling water.
• Casual Lunch: Leftovers heated up make for a delightful lunch the next day.
• Seasonal Sides: Pair with a seasonal salad or roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal.
• Meal Prep: This dish can easily be made ahead of time for busy nights.
• Festive Occasions: It’s also a wonderful choice for special occasions like Valentine’s Day, where you want to impress.

FAQ

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a dish that beautifully combines flavors and textures, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion. Its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and satisfying orzo come together to create a delightful meal that is sure to impress. I encourage you to try this recipe for yourself; you won’t be disappointed! It’s a meal that not only fills your stomach but also warms your heart.

Marry Me Chicken Orzo

The ultimate comfort food, Marry Me Chicken Orzo combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked orzo. This easy weeknight dinner is rich, flavorful, and guaranteed to impress anyone around your table. Make it tonight for an unforgettable meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 620 kcal

Equipment

• Large deep skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden Spoon or spatula
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound chicken breasts diced into bite-size pieces
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
• 1 teaspoon tomato paste
• ½ cup sundried tomatoes chopped
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 ½ cups orzo uncooked (regular or whole wheat)
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 ½ cups chicken stock
• 1 cup heavy cream (double cream in the UK)
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese grated
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves chopped

Instructions

 

• Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken, season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, and cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned. Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside.
• Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Stir in the tomato paste, sundried tomatoes, and garlic, and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Add the orzo, crushed red pepper flakes, oregano, and thyme, and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
• Pour in the chicken stock and cream, then return the chicken to the pan. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring every 1-2 minutes so the orzo does not stick to the pan.
• When the orzo is tender, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the Parmesan until melted. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Notes

• Tip 1: Stir frequently during cooking to prevent the orzo from sticking.
• Tip 2: Taste the orzo at the end to ensure it’s fully cooked before removing from heat.
• Tip 3: For a lighter version, replace half of the cream with milk, or use half and half.
• Tip 4: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Tip 5: Orzo doesn’t generally freeze well.

Keyword Comfort Food Chicken Dish, Creamy Chicken Orzo, Easy One-Pan Chicken Recipe, Marry Me Chicken Orzo

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Meet Penny Porter

I bring the energy to our cooking sessions. I don’t have a “specialty” because I love it all I’m just as happy kneading dough as I am stirring a spicy curry. My favorite part of being on this team is the variety. One day we’re making pasta from scratch, and the next we’re grilling outdoors. I love the fast-paced creative process and am always the first one to grab an apron when a new idea pops up.