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How to Make Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Discover how to make Marry Me Chicken Orzo, a creamy one-pan dish with tender chicken, orzo, and rich flavors perfect for any dinner occasion

This Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a creamy, flavorful one-pan dish featuring tender chicken in a rich sun-dried tomato parmesan sauce, combined with orzo for the ultimate comfort meal. Perfect for date nights or cozy dinners! 🍗🧀

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (halved lengthwise)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Orzo & Sauce:

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Season & Sear the Chicken:

    • Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
    • Sear chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics & Cook the Orzo:

    • In the same pan, add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes; cook for 1 minute.
    • Stir in orzo pasta and lightly toast for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Make the Creamy Sauce:

    • Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
    • Stir in Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan cheese.
    • Simmer for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender.
  4. Add the Chicken & Finish Cooking:

    • Return seared chicken to the skillet and let simmer for 5 minutes, allowing flavors to blend.
    • Sprinkle with fresh basil before serving.
  5. Serve & Enjoy:

    • Plate the dish warm and serve with extra Parmesan cheese and a side of garlic bread.

Notes

  • For extra depth, add a splash of white wine before adding broth.
  • For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
  • To make it gluten-free, swap orzo for cooked quinoa or rice.