why make this recipe
Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a delightful dish that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken, creamy orzo, and vibrant vegetables makes this meal not only delicious but also visually appealing. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner and special enough to impress your guests. The rich flavors and comforting texture are sure to make anyone fall in love with it!
how to make Marry Me Chicken Orzo
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Directions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the orzo and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the heavy cream, spinach, and cherry tomatoes.
- Cook until the orzo is tender and the sauce has thickened, about 10 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, tossing to combine.
- Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese.
how to serve Marry Me Chicken Orzo
Marry Me Chicken Orzo is best served hot right out of the skillet. You can plate it nicely by placing a generous scoop of the creamy orzo mixture on a plate. Top it off with sliced chicken and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over everything. You can also add a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
how to store Marry Me Chicken Orzo
If you have leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back the creaminess.
tips to make Marry Me Chicken Orzo
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice and herbs before cooking.
- You can substitute the chicken with shrimp or turkey for a different protein option.
- Adjust the creaminess by adding more or less heavy cream based on your preference.
- Consider adding other vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms, for more variety.
variation
If you want to make this dish lighter, you can replace heavy cream with a mixture of Greek yogurt and chicken broth. Another option is to use whole wheat orzo for a healthier twist.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just ensure they are fully thawed and cooked through before serving.
Q: How can I make this recipe vegan?
A: To make this dish vegan, use plant-based chicken alternatives, coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Q: What can I pair with Marry Me Chicken Orzo?
A: This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for dipping into the creamy sauce.
Marry Me Chicken Orzo
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the orzo and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the heavy cream, spinach, and cherry tomatoes.
- Cook until the orzo is tender and the sauce has thickened, about 10 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, tossing to combine.
- Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese.