why make this recipe
Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and the unique texture of orzo pasta. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or to impress your loved ones. It’s simple to make, yet so flavorful that it might just win over hearts. Plus, it’s an all-in-one dish, making cleanup a breeze!
how to make Delicious Marry Me Chicken Orzo
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant. Add orzo and stir for 1 minute. Pour in chicken broth, stirring to scrape up any browned bits. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and thyme. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Return chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the orzo. Cover and cook for another 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the orzo is tender.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
how to serve Delicious Marry Me Chicken Orzo
Serve Marry Me Chicken Orzo hot straight from the skillet. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or even some roasted vegetables. The creamy sauce and savory chicken make it a satisfying meal on its own.
how to store Delicious Marry Me Chicken Orzo
If you have leftovers, let the dish cool down, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if it gets too thick.
tips to make Delicious Marry Me Chicken Orzo
- Make sure to season the chicken well to enhance the flavor.
- Don’t skip the steps for browning the chicken and sautéing the garlic; these add great depth of flavor.
- Adjust the cream and cheese quantity to your preference for richness, and feel free to add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers!
variation
For a healthier twist, you can substitute the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a low-fat cream alternative. You can also add vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus to the dish for extra nutrition and flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other types of pasta?
A: Yes, you can use other small pasta shapes like couscous, quinoa, or even regular pasta. Cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on them.
Q: Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dish a day ahead, just don’t bake it until you’re ready to eat. Store it in the fridge before cooking and bake it before serving.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: While it is possible to freeze the dish, the texture might change. It’s best to consume it fresh or refrigerate. If freezing, store in an airtight container and consume within 1 month.
Marry Me Chicken Orzo
Ingredients
Method
- Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add orzo and stir for 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken broth, stirring to scrape up any browned bits. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and thyme. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Return chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the orzo. Cover and cook for another 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the orzo is tender.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.