This Chicken Orzo dish will have everyone at your table falling in love! It’s rich, creamy, and can be on your plate in just 30 minutes. Plus, it’s all made in one pot, so cleanup is a breeze.
This recipe prevents orzo from drying out, reduces cooking time, and introduces sun-dried tomatoes for improved flavor depth in a creamy dish.
Sometimes, I struggle with finding recipes that are quick and easy but still taste amazing. This dish solves that problem perfectly. The creamy sauce and flavorful sun-dried tomatoes bring everything together in such a yummy way.
You can have this Chicken Orzo made and served in just half an hour, which is great for busy weeknights. And if you ever worry about the orzo drying out, just add in some water gradually while it cooks. Trust me; it’s worth the extra little step!
If you love one-pot meals, you might want to try something different. If you want a cheesy touch to your pasta nights, check out this Instant Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy Texture , The double cream and Parmesan create a delightful creaminess that coats the orzo, enhancing every bite with savory goodness.
- Quick and Convenient , This dish is ready in just 30 minutes, making it an easy weeknight dinner option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
- Flavorful and Tangy , Sun-dried tomatoes add a vibrant, tangy depth that perfectly complements the rich, creamy chicken and orzo, turning up the taste.
- Flexible Storage , You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days. Just add a splash of water when reheating to keep it fresh.
Ingredient Notes
- Chicken breast: This is the star of the dish, adding a hearty protein base. Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken, or swap in a meat alternative if you’d like.
- Orzo: This tiny pasta is perfect for soaking up all that creamy goodness. Choose a brand that cooks well and has a nice texture, like a traditional semolina or a whole grain version.
- Double cream: This adds a rich, silky texture, making everything feel comforting. If you want a lighter option, heavy cream or even a non-dairy cream can work as a substitute.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: These little bites pack a punch of tangy flavor. Go for ones packed in oil for maximum taste, or use fresh tomatoes if you can’t find them.
- Parmesan: You can’t skip the cheese! It adds a savory depth to the dish. Grate your own for the best flavor, or try Pecorino if you’re looking for something a bit different.
Keep scrolling to the recipe card below for the full printable recipe!
Recipe Tips
- If the orzo appears dry, adding a splash of water or broth will help achieve the desired texture during cooking.
- When using sun-dried tomatoes, opt for those packed in oil for an added burst of flavor that enriches the dish.
- If you notice the sauce separating, lowering the heat and gradually stirring in extra cream can smooth it out nicely.
- If the chicken seems undercooked after the suggested time, increasing the heat slightly while checking the internal temperature can ensure it’s cooked thoroughly.
- For a quick cook, this one-pot dish allows orzo to cook faster than traditional pasta, making it a convenient choice for busy nights.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve marry me chicken orzo alongside crusty bread for a wholesome meal. A fresh green salad complements the dish and adds nutrition.
- This recipe can serve as a hearty filling in grilled zucchini or stuffed peppers. It also works well in a baked pasta dish or as a base for chicken bowls.
- Top with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs to enhance the presentation. A squeeze of lemon juice adds brightness before serving.
Storage Guidelines
- To keep your marry me chicken orzo fresh, follow these storage tips:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water.
- Freezing: Place in a freezer bag, seal tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheating: Use a microwave-safe dish to reheat separated portions. Add a bit of water to retain moisture.
Recipe Variations
- You can use a meat alternative, such as tofu or seitan, instead of chicken breast for a vegetarian option.
- Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor.
- Either replace the sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers or use artichoke hearts for a refreshing twist.
- If you want to make a larger batch, increase the chicken and orzo to 1 kg (2.2 lb) and 500 g (1.1 lb), respectively.
More Similar Recipes
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Marry Me Chicken Orzo
A delicious one-pan meal featuring tender chicken and orzo pasta cooked in a creamy, flavorful sauce.
Equipment
- Large deep frying pan
- Lid for the frying pan
Ingredients
- 650 g Chicken breast 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 (2.75 cups)
- 150 ml Double cream (0.75 cups)
- 50 g Parmesan grated
- 120 g Spinach preferably baby spinach
- Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Start by heating some olive oil in a large pan over medium heat until it shimmers. You will know it is ready when the oil starts to swirl smoothly.
- Toss in the chopped chicken and garlic, letting them sizzle for a few minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Mix in those sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and paprika. Stir this well and let everything cook for a few more minutes until you can smell those spices.
- Pour the orzo into the pan, followed by the hot chicken stock, stirring well to combine. The liquid should bubble gently.
- Let the mixture simmer for around ten minutes, stirring occasionally. If you notice it drying out, just add a splash more stock.
- Once the orzo is al dente, stir in the double cream and grated Parmesan.
- Fold in the fresh spinach until just wilted.
- Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper on top before serving.
Notes
Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water and heat thoroughly.
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