What is Marry Me Chicken Orzo and why is it popular?

Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender chicken cooked in a creamy, savory sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs, served over orzo pasta. It has gained popularity because of its rich taste and relatively simple preparation, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners and special occasions.

What are the key ingredients needed for Marry Me Chicken Orzo?

The main ingredients include chicken breasts, olive oil, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, Italian seasoning, paprika, kosher salt, black pepper, orzo pasta, chicken broth, creamy elements like heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk, fresh spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese.

Can I make Marry Me Chicken Orzo dairy-free?

Yes, you can make this dish dairy-free by replacing heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and omitting the Parmesan cheese or substituting it with a dairy-free alternative. This adjustment keeps the creamy texture while accommodating dairy sensitivities.

How can I prevent the orzo pasta from sticking or burning while cooking?

To avoid sticking, stir the orzo regularly during cooking and avoid covering it continuously. Cooking it uncovered or partially covered helps moisture evaporate evenly and stops the pasta from clumping or burning on the bottom of the pan.

How long does it typically take to cook Marry Me Chicken Orzo from start to finish?

This recipe usually takes about 30 to 40 minutes total, including browning the chicken, simmering the sauce, and cooking the orzo until tender. It makes for a quick, satisfying meal that can easily fit into a busy schedule.

Marry Me Chicken Orzo Recipe Creamy One Pan Meal

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into cubes

2 tablespoons olive oil

4–5 cloves mashed garlic

3/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained

2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

2 teaspoons paprika

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 cup orzo

2 3/4 cups chicken broth or water

3/4 cup full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream

Two large handfuls fresh spinach

3/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1-Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breast cubes, seasoned with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1 teaspoon ground black pepper. Cook until the chicken is slightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.

2-Stir in 4-5 cloves of mashed garlic, 3/4 cup drained sun-dried tomatoes, 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, and 2 teaspoons paprika. Let this mix cook for a few more minutes to release the aromas.

3-Pour in 1 cup of orzo and 2 3/4 cups of chicken broth or water. Bring to a simmer, cover the pan, and cook for about 12 minutes, stirring regularly until the orzo is tender.

4-Lower the heat and add 3/4 cup of full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream along with two large handfuls of fresh spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens.

5-Finally, mix in 3/4 cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese until everything is creamy and well combined. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Last Step:

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Notes

🔥 Use a good quality sun-dried tomato packed in oil for richer flavor.
🥄 Stir orzo regularly while simmering to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
🌿 Add fresh spinach towards the end to keep it bright and tender without overcooking.

Author: Brandi Oshea
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: One-pan cooking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 420 kcal
Fat: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Protein: 36 g