Description
Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a comforting one-pan dish featuring tender chicken pieces cooked with orzo pasta in a creamy, flavorful sun-dried tomato sauce. This quick and easy recipe combines savory spices, garlic, and fresh basil for a deliciously rich meal perfect for weeknights.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup half-and-half, more if needed
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Season the chicken. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring even coating for flavor.
- Cook the chicken. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until cooked through and no longer pink inside.
- Add aromatics and spices. Stir in minced garlic, paprika, dried Italian seasoning, and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Cook the orzo. Add dry orzo and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cover. Let simmer for 10 to 12 minutes until orzo is tender and liquid absorbed.
- Add cream and cheese. Pour in half-and-half and stir well. The orzo will absorb the creamy liquid quickly; add more half-and-half if needed to achieve desired creaminess.
- Finish the dish. Stir in grated parmesan and chopped fresh basil until the cheese melts and basil wilts. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed, then serve immediately for best flavor.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for a juicier alternative to breast if desired.
- Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil can be used but reduce olive oil added initially.
- If you prefer dairy-free, substitute half-and-half and parmesan with plant-based alternatives.
- Make sure to keep the skillet covered during simmering to cook orzo evenly.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently with a splash of cream or broth.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 105 mg
