ONE PAN “MARRY ME” CHICKEN ORZO Recipe

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If you are craving a dish that feels as special as it sounds but comes together with ease, look no further than the ONE PAN “MARRY ME” CHICKEN ORZO. This savory delight combines tender, juicy chicken with creamy orzo, kissed with the bold flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and garlic, all in one skillet. It’s comfort food with a romantic twist that never fails to impress, whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a cozy meal shared with someone special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of the ONE PAN “MARRY ME” CHICKEN ORZO lies in its simplicity and thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one adds layers of taste and texture, making the dish rich and satisfying without fuss.

• 1.5 Pounds Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast: The heart of the dish, these cubes cook quickly and soak up the flavorful sauce beautifully.
• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil: Adds a silky base for sautéing and helps meld all the flavors together.
• 4-5 Cloves Garlic, Mashed: Garlic infuses the dish with an aromatic depth that awakens your palate.
• ¾ Cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Packed in Oil and Drained: Their intense, tangy sweetness brightens every bite.
• 2 Teaspoons Italian Seasoning: This classic blend brings warmth and Italian flair to every mouthful.
• 2 Teaspoons Paprika: Adds a smoky, slightly sweet note with a lovely color boost.
• ½ Teaspoon Kosher Salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the natural tastes.
• 1 Teaspoon Ground Black Pepper: Provides subtle heat and spice to round out the profile.
• 1 Cup Orzo: The star grain that cooks into creamy bliss, soaking up all the tasty broth.
• 2 ¾ Cups Chicken Broth or Water: A savory liquid that ensures the orzo cooks tender and flavorful.
• ¾ Cup Full-Fat Coconut Milk or Heavy Cream: Adds luscious creaminess and richness to the sauce.
• 2 Large Handfuls Fresh Spinach: Tender greens bring vibrant color and a fresh contrast to the creamy orzo.
• ¾ Cup Parmesan Cheese, Freshly Grated: The finishing touch that melts into a nutty, savory blanket over the dish.

How to Make ONE PAN “MARRY ME” CHICKEN ORZO

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry. Drying ensures the chicken browns nicely instead of steaming. Cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes so they cook evenly and marry perfectly with the orzo’s creamy texture later on.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet and Sauté Chicken

Warm your skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once shimmering, add the chicken cubes and let them cook for 2-3 minutes until the edges develop a light golden crust. This step locks in juicy flavor and builds a tasty base for the sauce.

Step 3: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Seasonings

Introduce the sun-dried tomatoes, mashed garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. This step is when all those bold flavors start to infuse the chicken and oil.

Step 4: Incorporate Orzo and Broth

Stir in the orzo, making sure each grain gets coated with that fragrant mixture. Pour in the chicken broth or water and give it a good stir to combine. This is where the orzo begins to soak up all the delicious flavors while cooking.

Step 5: Simmer and Stir

Reduce the heat to medium and cover the pan. Allow the orzo to cook for about 12 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking. This slow simmer ensures the orzo becomes tender and fluffy, soaking up all the savory goodness in the pan.

Step 6: Add Creaminess and Spinach

Once the orzo is perfectly cooked, stir in the coconut milk or heavy cream to create a silky, luscious sauce. Add the fresh spinach and mix until it wilts into the creamy bed, adding a fresh, green contrast to the rich textures.

Step 7: Finish with Parmesan Cheese

Finally, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top and stir it in thoroughly. The cheese melts right into the warm orzo, giving you that irresistible, savory finish that defines the ONE PAN “MARRY ME” CHICKEN ORZO experience.

How to Serve ONE PAN “MARRY ME” CHICKEN ORZO

Garnishes

Brighten your dish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil to add a pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness that complements the richness perfectly. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice can elevate the flavors even more.

Side Dishes

This one-pan wonder shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for a balanced meal. Garlic bread or crusty baguette are also wonderful companions for sopping up any lingering sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, serve the ONE PAN “MARRY ME” CHICKEN ORZO in rustic bowls and garnish with shaved Parmesan and a few sun-dried tomato slices on top. You can also arrange it in individual ramekins and broil briefly to create a golden cheesy crust.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover ONE PAN “MARRY ME” CHICKEN ORZO in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making the dish even more delicious when reheated.

Freezing

If you want to keep leftovers longer, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers. While texture may soften slightly after freezing, reheating gently will bring back much of the original creaminess and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir frequently to warm evenly and avoid drying out, restoring the luscious creaminess of the original dish.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Absolutely! While orzo is ideal for its creamy texture and quick cooking, small pasta shapes like couscous or small shells can work, but cooking times and liquid amounts may vary.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, swapping heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk, as mentioned in the recipe, keeps it dairy-free. Just omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative to maintain that cheesy finish.

Can I prepare this dish without sun-dried tomatoes?

Sun-dried tomatoes add a unique tangy sweetness, but if you don’t have them on hand, roasted red peppers or even diced fresh tomatoes can be good substitutes, adding different but delightful flavors.

What type of pan works best for making ONE PAN “MARRY ME” CHICKEN ORZO?

A deep, heavy skillet like a cast iron or stainless steel pan with a lid works best. It allows even cooking and retains heat well for simmering the orzo perfectly.

How can I make the spinach stand out more in the dish?

Try adding the spinach in two batches — one part early enough to wilt fully and another just before serving to keep a fresher, brighter green pop and a slightly crunchy texture.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the ONE PAN “MARRY ME” CHICKEN ORZO that makes every dinner feel like an occasion. It’s an effortless, comforting, and flavorful dish that’s sure to win hearts. Whether you’re cooking for your family or a date night, this recipe is a one-pan wonder you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. Go ahead, give it a try and savor every bite!

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