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Marry Me Chicken Orzo Recipe

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4.3 from 10 reviews

Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a creamy, comforting one-pan dish featuring juicy, seasoned chicken breasts cooked in a flavorful sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, and fresh basil, served over tender orzo pasta and vibrant spinach.

Ingredients

For the chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

For the orzo:

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken: Season both sides of the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor.
  2. Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet or pot. Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
  3. Sauté garlic: In the same pan, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Add sun-dried tomatoes: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1 minute to release their flavor.
  5. Simmer with chicken broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to prepare for cooking the orzo.
  6. Cook the orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta and cook uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
  7. Add cream and cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce becomes creamy.
  8. Wilt the spinach: Add the fresh spinach leaves to the pan and cook until wilted, integrating them into the creamy orzo.
  9. Finish the dish: Slice the cooked chicken breasts and return them to the pan. Add the fresh chopped basil and gently mix everything together for a harmonious flavor.
  10. Serve: Plate the dish while warm, enjoying the rich, creamy chicken and orzo with fresh herbs and spinach.

Notes

  • Red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted to suit your spice preference.
  • Use low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative.
  • Ensure the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before removing from the pan.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/marry-me-chicken-orzo-recipe/