Irresistible Marry Me Chicken Orzo Recipe That Seals The Deal

Tender chicken nestled in a creamy, sun-dried tomato sauce makes this marry me chicken orzo recipe a true showstopper at any dinner table.

The combination of juicy chicken and perfectly cooked orzo creates a mouthwatering harmony of flavors.

Parmesan cheese adds a rich, salty note that complements the tangy tomatoes and herbs.

Fresh basil brings a bright, aromatic touch to the dish, making each bite more irresistible than the last.

Weeknight dinners will never be the same once you experience this comforting and elegant meal.

The name says it all – this recipe is so delicious, it might just inspire a proposal.

Prepare to fall in love with every single forkful.

FAQs

• What makes the orzo creamy?

The combination of cream and parmesan cheese creates a rich, smooth texture that coats the orzo and chicken perfectly.

• Can I use a different type of pasta?

Orzo works best for this recipe, but you could substitute small pasta shapes like stelline or small shells if needed.

• Is this dish spicy?

The red pepper flakes provide a mild heat, but you can adjust the amount or omit them entirely for a less spicy version.

• How do I know when the orzo is cooked correctly?

The orzo should be tender but still have a slight bite, and the sauce should be thick and creamy when it’s done cooking.

Creamy One-Pot Chicken Orzo: Top Reasons to Enjoy

• Simplify Weeknight Cooking: Dive into a hassle-free meal that comes together in just one pot, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor with minimal effort.
• Burst with Flavor Combinations: Enjoy a delightful mix of sun-dried tomatoes, herbs, and creamy parmesan that creates a restaurant-worthy dish right in your kitchen.
• Customize with Ease: Swap chicken for vegetarian protein or adjust spice levels to suit your family's taste preferences, making this recipe incredibly versatile.
• Comfort Food Reimagined: Experience a creamy, satisfying meal that brings warmth and excitement to your dinner table with its rich, Mediterranean-inspired ingredients.

All Ingredients Needed for Chicken Orzo

• Chicken: Protein that adds hearty flavor and substance to the creamy dish.
• Orzo: Small pasta that creates a comforting and creamy texture in the recipe.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds rich, salty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.

• Garlic, Oregano, Red Pepper Flakes: Provide depth of flavor and aromatic warmth to the dish.
• Basil: Fresh herb that adds a bright, final touch to the creamy chicken orzo.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Contribute a concentrated, tangy sweetness to the overall flavor profile.

• Olive Oil, Butter: Create a rich base for building flavor and preventing sticking.
• Wine, Chicken Broth, Heavy Cream: Form the liquid components that create the creamy sauce.
• Tomato Paste: Adds depth and helps build a robust sauce base.

Making Creamy Chicken Orzo in One Pot

Step 1: Develop Aromatic Base

Create a flavorful foundation by heating oil and butter in a large skillet.

• Tomato paste
• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Dried oregano
• Minced garlic
• Red pepper flakes
• Orzo pasta

Sauté the mixture, stirring constantly, until the orzo becomes lightly golden and fragrant, which takes about 2-3 minutes.

Step 2: Introduce Liquid Layers

Pour in white wine and let it simmer for a minute, allowing the alcohol to cook off and concentrate the flavors.

• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream

Stir the liquids thoroughly and let the mixture cook for 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Combine and Finish

Add shredded or cubed chicken to the creamy orzo mixture.

• Grated parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves

Cover the skillet and let everything meld together for 3-5 minutes.

The dish will naturally thicken and become irresistibly creamy.

Remove from heat and serve hot, garnishing with additional basil if desired.

Tips to Nail Chicken Orzo Texture

• Toast orzo and aromatics in oil and butter to develop deep, rich flavors before adding liquids.
• Stir frequently while cooking to prevent orzo from sticking and ensure creamy, even texture.
• Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs cut into even pieces for uniform cooking and tender results.
• Fresh basil adds brightness, but you can substitute with dried herbs or mix in other fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.
• Reduce or increase red pepper flakes based on your heat preference, allowing personalized flavor control.

One-Pot Chicken Orzo Recipe Switch-Ups

• Vegetarian Orzo Delight: Replace chicken with cubed tofu or plant-based protein, use vegetable broth for a meat-free version.
• Mediterranean Seafood Edition: Swap chicken for shrimp or white fish, add lemon zest and extra herbs for a coastal flavor profile.
• Dairy-Free Comfort Bowl: Use coconut cream instead of regular cream, substitute nutritional yeast for parmesan to maintain creamy texture.
• Gluten-Free Wellness Option: Replace orzo with cauliflower rice or gluten-free quinoa, ensuring same cooking technique and rich taste.

Ways to Serve Creamy Chicken Orzo

• Rustic Family Dinner Centerpiece: Serve this creamy orzo directly from the pot, creating a warm, inviting family-style meal that encourages sharing and conversation.
• Mediterranean Plating Elegance: Garnish with extra fresh basil, cracked black pepper, and a sprinkle of parmesan, presenting the dish with a restaurant-quality visual appeal.
• Complementary Side Companions: Pair with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or warm crusty bread to soak up the rich, creamy sauce and complete the dining experience.
• Wine Pairing Perfection: Choose a light white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the dish's creamy texture and herb-infused flavors.

How to Store Leftover Chicken Orzo

• Store leftover chicken orzo in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. The creamy texture might slightly change when chilled, but flavors remain delicious.
• Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore moisture and prevent drying out. Stir occasionally to maintain even heating.
• Transfer cooled dish to freezer-safe containers, removing excess air. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.
• Keep cream-based dishes covered and consume within recommended storage time to maintain best texture and prevent sauce from breaking down.

Marry Me Chicken Orzo Recipe

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4.8 from 40 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent marry me chicken orzo brings Mediterranean charm to dinner tables with irresistible flavors. Creamy parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and tender chicken create a romantic meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Proteins and Meats:

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated

Pasta and Main Ingredients:

• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream

Seasonings and Aromatics:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Fresh basil, torn

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Instructions

1. Warm a large skillet over medium heat, melting butter and oil together while incorporating tomato paste, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
2. Toast orzo in the fragrant mixture for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning and ensure even coating.
3. Pour wine into the skillet, allowing it to simmer and deglaze the pan for approximately 1 minute, releasing any caramelized bits.
4. Gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream, reducing heat and simmering for 10 minutes while frequently stirring to prevent orzo from sticking.
5. Gently fold in diced chicken, ensuring even distribution throughout the creamy mixture.
6. Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese and torn basil leaves over the surface, then cover the skillet.
7. Allow the dish to cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens and the chicken is heated through, creating a luxurious and cohesive one-pot meal.

Notes

• Choose high-quality sun-dried tomatoes for deeper, richer flavor profiles that elevate the entire dish.
• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for more moisture and tender meat that won’t dry out during cooking.
• Control spice levels by adjusting red pepper flakes, allowing customization for different heat preferences.
• Fresh parmesan cheese creates smoother, more luxurious texture compared to pre-grated alternatives.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch, Appetizer
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 600
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 120mg