If you are searching for a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal that will wow everyone at your table, this Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish brings together tender chicken, vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, creamy Parmesan, and wholesome orzo in a rich, velvety sauce that cooks all in one pot. It’s a truly delicious combination perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners when you want to impress without stress. The juicy chicken and luscious, creamy orzo make this recipe so addictive, you’ll find yourself making it on repeat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether adding depth, creaminess, or a fresh pop of color. These straightforward pantry staples and fresh goodies come together to create a dish bursting with flavor and texture.
- Chicken breast, 650 g (about 4 pieces): Skinless and boneless for quick cooking and tenderness.
- Olive oil, 1 tbsp: Adds richness and helps caramelize the chicken beautifully.
- Garlic cloves, 3 peeled and crushed: Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic notes.
- Sun-dried tomatoes in oil, 170 g (drained): Brings a sweet and tangy intensity that makes this recipe special.
- Oregano, 1 tsp: Adds a subtle earthy herbiness.
- Paprika, 2 tsp: Provides a smoky depth and vibrant color.
- Orzo, 250 g: The ultimate comfort pasta, small grains that soak up the delicious sauce.
- Hot chicken stock, 650 ml: The flavorful liquid base that cooks the orzo perfectly.
- Double cream, 150 ml: Creates the luscious, velvety texture that coats every bite.
- Parmesan, 50 g grated: Offers salty, nutty richness for finishing touches.
- Spinach, 120 g: Adds freshness and a lovely green pop without overpowering flavors.
- Freshly ground black pepper: For seasoning and a gentle kick.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Start by heating your olive oil in a large, deep frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, gently add your chicken pieces. Let them cook for about 5 minutes, stirring from time to time until the chicken is turning a lovely golden brown on all sides. This step locks in flavor and creates a delicious base for your sauce.
Step 2: Add Aromatics and Spices
Turn the heat down and toss in the crushed garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and paprika. Stir everything together and let it cook gently for 3 to 5 minutes. This allows the garlic to soften and all those beautiful spices and tangy tomatoes to meld into the chicken, infusing great flavor.
Step 3: Stir in Orzo and Stock
Now it’s time to add the orzo and pour in the hot chicken stock along with a good grind of freshly ground black pepper. Give it all a thorough stir so nothing sticks, then cover with a lid. Let the orzo cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking, until it is just about tender but still has a tiny bite. This creates the perfect texture that will soak up the cream without getting mushy.
Step 4: Wilt the Spinach and Add Cream
Reduce your heat to the lowest setting. Add the spinach and pour in the double cream. Stir everything well for 1 to 3 minutes until the spinach wilts down and the cream warms through. At this stage, check that your chicken is cooked completely through—juicy and tender.
Step 5: Finish with Parmesan
Finally, turn off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan. This finishing touch creates a silky, cheesy coating that binds all those flavors together, making every mouthful utterly irresistible.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your dish by adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil on top. A zest of lemon can add a lovely brightness that cuts through the creamy richness perfectly. For those who love a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes works wonders.
Side Dishes
This Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} Recipe is mighty satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables truly rounds out the meal. A side of garlic bread or a crusty baguette is also fantastic for mopping up every last bit of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, consider plating this recipe in shallow, warm bowls for a cozy vibe. Garnish with edible flowers or microgreens to add a touch of elegance. Individual servings in mini cast-iron skillets make a delightful presentation that will impress any guest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftovers from this Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, too. Place portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or stock if needed to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts to avoid overheating and drying out the chicken or orzo.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor. Just ensure they are chopped into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly with the orzo.
Is sun-dried tomatoes in oil necessary?
Using sun-dried tomatoes in oil is highly recommended because the oil adds richness and the tomatoes provide a sweet, tangy punch. If using dry ones, rehydrate them and consider adding some olive oil for flavor.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the double cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor.
How do I know when the orzo is cooked perfectly?
The orzo should be tender but still have a slight bite to it, what’s called “al dente.” Cooking for about 10 minutes with occasional stirring usually does the trick, but tasting as you go is best.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add mushrooms, bell peppers, or even cherry tomatoes with the spinach in step 4 to customize the dish to your liking.
Final Thoughts
This Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} Recipe is one of those magical go-to meals that impresses without demanding hours in the kitchen. Its creamy, flavorful sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant ingredients make it a real crowd-pleaser. I truly encourage you to give it a try—whether for a cozy family dinner or to wow friends, it’s a delicious choice you won’t regret.
Print
Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Description
Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a comforting one-pot dish featuring tender chicken breast simmered with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and aromatic spices, served with creamy spinach and orzo pasta. This easy-to-make, flavorful recipe comes together in just 30 minutes and combines creamy Parmesan and double cream for a rich finish, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 650 g chicken breast (skinless and boneless, chopped into pieces)
- 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
Orzo and Liquids
- 250 g orzo pasta
- 650 ml hot chicken stock
- 150 ml double cream
Vegetables and Cheese
- 120 g fresh spinach
- 50 g Parmesan cheese (grated)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large, deep frying pan over medium heat. When hot, add the chopped chicken pieces carefully. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all sides of the chicken start to turn golden and develop color.
- Add Aromatics and Spices: Lower the heat and add the crushed garlic, drained sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and paprika to the pan. Stir everything together and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the garlic softens and the flavors meld.
- Cook the Orzo: Add the orzo pasta, hot chicken stock, and a good pinch of freshly ground black pepper into the pan. Stir well to combine, then cover with a lid. Let it cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is nearly cooked through.
- Finish with Spinach and Cream: Reduce heat to the lowest setting and add the fresh spinach and double cream to the pan. Stir thoroughly for 1 to 3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the cream is heated through. Ensure that the chicken is fully cooked at this stage.
- Add Cheese and Serve: Turn off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated. Adjust seasoning with more pepper if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy, flavorful one-pot meal.
Notes
- You can use oil from the sun-dried tomatoes jar to enhance the flavor instead of plain olive oil.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, cook the orzo uncovered for the last few minutes to reduce excess liquid.
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by cutting into the largest piece before serving.
- For a lighter option, substitute double cream with half-and-half or creme fraiche.
- This dish can be kept refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
