Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}

This Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that combines the rich flavors of Tuscan-inspired chicken with the convenience of orzo pasta. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe delivers a creamy, comforting meal in just 30 minutes. With its one-pot approach, cleanup is a breeze, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
• One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy all the flavors without the hassle of multiple pots and pans to clean.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and spices creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a cozy family dinner or impress guests at your next gathering.
• Creamy Texture: The addition of cream and cheese gives it a rich and satisfying finish.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}, you’ll need some essential tools to make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large deep frying pan
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large deep frying pan: Allows you to cook the chicken and pasta together without overcrowding.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients gently and ensuring even cooking without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 650 g Chicken breast (about x4) (Skinless and boneless. Chopped)
• 1 tbsp Olive oil (Or oil from sun dried tomatoes jar)

For the Flavoring

• 3 Garlic cloves (Peeled and crushed)
• 170 g Sun-dried tomatoes (in oil) (Drained)
• 1 tsp Oregano
• 2 tsp Paprika

For the Pasta Base

• 250 g Orzo
• 650 ml Hot chicken stock

For Creaminess

• 150 ml Double cream
• 50 g Parmesan (Grated)

For Freshness

• 120 g Spinach
• Freshly ground black pepper

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}

Step 1: Heat the Oil

In a large, deep frying pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until all sides are browned.

Step 2: Add Flavor Ingredients

Reduce the heat slightly. Add the garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and paprika to the pan. Stir everything together for 3-5 minutes until the garlic softens.

Step 3: Incorporate Orzo and Stock

Add the orzo along with hot chicken stock and some freshly ground black pepper. Stir well to combine. Cover with a lid and cook for approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is nearly cooked.

Step 4: Mix in Spinach and Cream

Lower the heat to its lowest setting. Add spinach and double cream to the mixture. Stir well for about 1-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the cream is heated through. Ensure that the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan

Turn off the heat and stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted into the dish.

Now enjoy your homemade Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}

Serving Marry Me Chicken Orzo is all about enhancing the delightful flavors of this dish while keeping it simple. Here are some suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Chopped fresh herbs add brightness and a burst of flavor to each bite.
• Chives: Finely sliced chives offer a mild onion flavor that complements the creaminess.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Ciabatta Rolls: These airy rolls are great for mopping up any leftover orzo.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• Feta Crumbles: Sprinkle some feta on top for a tangy twist that pairs wonderfully with chicken.
• More Parmesan: A generous amount of grated parmesan can enhance the dish’s cheesy goodness.

Served with Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the orzo.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing side that complements the flavors.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}

To make your Marry Me Chicken Orzo truly irresistible, consider these helpful tips for perfection.

• Bold seasoning: Ensure you season the chicken well before cooking. This elevates the overall flavor profile.
• Use hot stock: Adding hot chicken stock helps maintain temperature and speeds up cooking time for the orzo.
• Don’t overcook the orzo: Keep an eye on the cooking time; orzo should be al dente for the best texture in your dish.
• Experiment with greens: Feel free to swap spinach for other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard, adding variety and nutrition.
• Adjust creaminess: If you prefer a richer dish, increase the amount of cream slightly for an even smoother texture.
• Save some cheese: Reserve a bit of parmesan to sprinkle on top just before serving for added flavor and presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}

Pairing side dishes with your Marry Me Chicken Orzo can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Roasting seasonal vegetables in olive oil and garlic creates a flavorful complement to your meal.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly seasoned steamed asparagus adds freshness and crunch, balancing the richness of the orzo.
3. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: This salad, made with chickpeas, cucumbers, and tomatoes, brings bright flavors to your table.
4. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles provide a low-carb alternative that pairs nicely with creamy dishes.
5. Lemon Herb Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa flavored with lemon and herbs offers a nutritious side that complements chicken well.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken and creamy orzo.
7. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted until golden brown, they add a crunchy texture alongside your tender pasta dish.
8. Simple Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed in olive oil bring color and freshness to your plate without overpowering flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}, it’s easy to overlook some key aspects. Here are common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not using enough liquid: Ensure you measure the chicken stock accurately. Insufficient liquid can lead to undercooked orzo.

• Overcooking the chicken: Cook the chicken just until it’s no longer pink in the middle. Overcooking can make it tough and dry.

• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to season your dish with freshly ground black pepper and other spices. This adds essential flavor.

• Adding spinach too early: If you add spinach too soon, it may wilt excessively. Add it at the end for a vibrant color and texture.

• Ignoring leftovers: Leftovers can be delicious! Store them properly to maintain freshness and enjoy later.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}

• Use a freezer-safe container for storage.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.

• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between intervals.

• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} that might help you make this recipe even better:

Can I use other types of meat in Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, lamb, or turkey depending on your preference. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I customize my Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor. Fresh herbs can also elevate the dish.

Is Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and is perfect for meal prep. Just follow storage instructions carefully.

What can I serve with Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}?

This dish is hearty enough on its own but pairs nicely with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and textures into a simple one-pot meal. Its versatility allows for various customizations, making it perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and impress your family with an easy yet elegant dinner!