Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} Recipe

Introduction

Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a comforting one-pot dish that perfectly balances creamy, savory flavors with tender chicken and vibrant spinach. This recipe is simple to prepare yet impressive enough for a weeknight dinner or a cozy meal with loved ones.

Ingredients

• 650 g chicken breast (about 4 pieces, skinless and boneless, chopped)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (or oil from sun-dried tomatoes jar)
• 3 garlic cloves (peeled and crushed)
• 170 g sun-dried tomatoes (in oil, drained)
• 1 tsp oregano
• 2 tsp paprika
• 250 g orzo
• 650 ml hot chicken stock
• 150 ml double cream
• 50 g Parmesan (grated)
• 120 g spinach
• Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large, deep frying pan, heat the oil over medium heat. When hot, carefully add the chicken pieces and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all sides start to colour.
2. Step 2: Reduce the heat and add the garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and paprika. Stir for 3-5 minutes until the garlic softens.
3. Step 3: Add the orzo, chicken stock, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well, cover with a lid, and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is almost tender.
4. Step 4: Turn the heat to the lowest setting. Add the spinach and double cream, stirring thoroughly for 1-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the cream is heated through. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
5. Step 5: Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan. Serve immediately for a rich, creamy meal.

Tips & Variations

• Use oil from the sun-dried tomato jar for extra flavor when cooking the chicken.
• Swap spinach for kale or swiss chard for a slightly different texture and taste.
• Add a pinch of chili flakes with the paprika for a subtle spicy kick.
• For a lighter version, substitute double cream with half-and-half or a milk alternative.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken stock or cream to maintain creaminess and prevent drying out.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Yes, chicken thighs work well in this recipe and will add more moisture and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the orzo with a gluten-free pasta or use quinoa for a different texture while keeping the dish gluten-free.

Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 61 reviews

Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a comforting one-pot dish featuring tender chicken breast cooked with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and aromatic spices. The addition of creamy double cream, fresh spinach, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich and flavorful meal perfect for any night of the week. This Mediterranean-inspired recipe combines simple ingredients and minimal cleanup for a delicious, hearty dinner.

• Author: Lila
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Seasonings

• 650 g Chicken breast (about 4 pieces, skinless and boneless, chopped)
• 1 tbsp Olive oil (or oil from sun-dried tomatoes jar)
• 3 Garlic cloves (peeled and crushed)
• 170 g Sun-dried tomatoes (in oil, drained)
• 1 tsp Oregano
• 2 tsp Paprika
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Pasta and Liquids

• 250 g Orzo
• 650 ml Hot chicken stock
• 150 ml Double cream

Vegetables and Cheese

• 120 g Spinach
• 50 g Parmesan (grated)

Instructions

1. Cook the chicken: In a large, deep frying pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped chicken pieces carefully. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all sides of the chicken start to brown evenly.
2. Sauté aromatics and spices: Lower the heat and add the crushed garlic, drained sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and paprika. Stir continuously for 3-5 minutes until the garlic softens and the spices release their aroma.
3. Add orzo and stock: Pour in the orzo and hot chicken stock, then season with freshly ground black pepper. Stir well to combine, cover with a lid, and cook for 10 minutes, occasionally stirring, until the orzo is nearly cooked through and has absorbed most of the liquid.
4. Finish with spinach and cream: Reduce the heat to the lowest setting. Add the spinach and double cream, stirring thoroughly for 1-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the cream heats through. Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly at this stage.
5. Incorporate Parmesan and serve: Turn off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until well combined and melted into the dish. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

• You can substitute spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor.
• Use chicken thighs instead of breast for a juicier texture.
• Adjust the amount of paprika depending on your preferred spice level.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, cook the orzo uncovered for the last few minutes to reduce the liquid.
• Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Keywords: Marry Me Chicken, One Pot Meal, Chicken Orzo, Creamy Chicken Pasta, Sun-Dried Tomato Recipe