Description
One-Pan “Marry Me” Chicken Orzo
Legend has it that this “Marry Me” Chicken dish has sealed the deal for many couples—it’s just that delicious! My version combines tender chicken breasts, a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, and hearty orzo for a cozy one-pan meal. This creamy, flavorful dish is perfect for a romantic dinner or a comforting family meal. Get ready to make dinner easy, delicious, and filled with love!
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
2 tbsp olive oil
4-5 cloves garlic, mashed
¾ cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained)
2 tsp Italian seasoning
2 tsp paprika
½ tsp kosher salt
1 tsp ground black pepper
1 cup orzo
2 ¾ cups chicken broth or water
¾ cup full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream
2 large handfuls fresh spinach
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
1. Pat chicken dry and cube it. Heat oil in skillet over medium heat.
2. Cook chicken for 2-3 minutes, add garlic, tomatoes, seasonings, and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
3. Add orzo and broth, cover, and cook for 12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Mix in coconut milk and spinach until wilted. Stir in Parmesan. Serve immediately.
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 420 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect one-pan meal. First, ensure your chicken breasts are patted completely dry with paper towels before cubing into even, bite-sized pieces. This promotes better browning. In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid steaming. Cook for 2-3 minutes until just golden on one side. Add the mashed garlic, drained sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and the chicken is mostly cooked through. Next, add the dry orzo and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan bottom. Bring to a simmer, then cover tightly. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 12 minutes, stirring every 4 minutes to prevent sticking, until orzo is al dente and liquid is mostly absorbed. Uncover, stir in the coconut milk (or heavy cream) and fresh spinach. Cook for 2-3 more minutes until spinach wilts and sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan until melted and creamy.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and creamy dish is a complete meal on its own, but a few simple sides can elevate it. For a romantic dinner, serve with crusty garlic bread to soak up the sauce and a light arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a family meal, pair it with steamed green beans or roasted asparagus. A glass of crisp white wine, like a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the sun-dried tomato and garlic flavors beautifully.
How-to Summary
Brown cubed chicken with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and spices. Add uncooked orzo and broth, then cover and simmer for 12 minutes. Finish by stirring in coconut milk (or cream), spinach, and Parmesan cheese until creamy and combined.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent substitute. They may require an extra minute or two of initial cooking time due to higher fat content.
What can I use instead of coconut milk? Heavy cream is the classic alternative. For a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk can work, but the sauce will be less rich and thick.
My orzo is still hard after 12 minutes. What happened? Your heat may have been too low, or the pan was not covered tightly. Ensure a steady simmer and a tight-fitting lid. Add a splash more broth and cook a few minutes longer.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? It’s best served fresh, as the orzo continues to absorb liquid. If reheating, add a little extra broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
Is there a substitute for sun-dried tomatoes? While they provide a distinct sweet-tangy flavor, you can use 1/4 cup of tomato paste cooked with the garlic for a different, but still delicious, tomato base.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not patting the chicken dry: This prevents proper browning and can lead to steaming.
- Overcrowding the pan: Cook chicken in batches to get golden color, not gray, boiled meat.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan: It contains anti-caking agents and won’t melt as smoothly. Freshly grate your cheese.
- Stirring too infrequently: Orzo can stick to the pan bottom. Stir every few minutes during the covered cooking time.
- Adding the spinach too early: Add it at the end with the cream to just wilt it, preventing a mushy texture.
Conclusion
This “Marry Me” Chicken Orzo is more than just a clever name; it’s a testament to the power of simple, flavorful ingredients combined in one pan. With its creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, tender chicken, and hearty pasta, it delivers maximum comfort and taste with minimal cleanup. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can consistently create an impressive dish perfect for any occasion, from a weeknight family dinner to a special date night at home.