Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a delicious and creamy dish that combines tender chicken, savory sun-dried tomatoes, and comforting orzo pasta. This meal is not just easy to prepare but also bursting with flavors that can make anyone fall in love with it. Whether it’s a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to be a hit at your table!
Why Make This Recipe
You should make Marry Me Chicken Orzo because it captures the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creamy sauce, combined with the sun-dried tomatoes and perfectly cooked chicken, creates a dish that feels gourmet yet is simple enough for home cooks. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying your delicious creation!
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Orzo
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 600g)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup orzo
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 Tbsp chopped fresh basil (plus extra for garnish)
Directions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown, then set aside.
- Sauté the diced onion in the same skillet until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, then stir in the orzo and return the chicken to the skillet.
- Cover and simmer on low for 12-14 minutes until the orzo is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer for another 2 minutes.
- Garnish with extra basil and serve warm.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Orzo
Serve Marry Me Chicken Orzo warm, straight from the skillet, for a comforting meal. Pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. This dish is perfect for both family dinners and romantic meals!
How to Store Marry Me Chicken Orzo
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep the chicken orzo in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if it becomes too thick.
Tips to Make Marry Me Chicken Orzo
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken; this ensures a nice golden crust.
- Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. If you prefer a bit more heat, add more red pepper flakes.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and creaminess.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe by adding vegetables like spinach or zucchini. For a lighter version, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta like ditalini or even rice. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with chickpeas or a mix of hearty vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
3. Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Orzo?
Yes, you can freeze the dish. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it on the stove.
Enjoy making and sharing your Marry Me Chicken Orzo!
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