Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} is the kind of dish that steals the show and hearts at the dinner table. Imagine juicy chicken nestled in a creamy, sun-dried tomato–studded orzo, all bubbling away in one pot for a flavor-packed meal that’s as impressive as it is easy. This recipe is perfect for weeknights when you want something special without a mountain of dishes, and you’ll love how each bite is loaded with tender chicken, silky sauce, and pops of bright basil. If you’re looking for a meal that’s sure to earn rave reviews and maybe even a few marriage proposals, Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} is your new go-to!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things delightfully simple while delivering big, bold flavors. Each ingredient in Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} brings its own magic—whether it’s the richness of the cream, the tang from sun-dried tomatoes, or the savory punch of Parmesan. Here’s what you’ll need, and why you need it:
- Chicken thighs or breasts: Choose your favorite cut; thighs are juicier, but breasts work beautifully for a leaner option.
- Salt: Enhances every flavor and ensures your chicken is seasoned perfectly from the first bite.
- Black pepper: Adds a touch of gentle heat and depth to balance the creamy sauce.
- Olive oil: Helps sear the chicken to golden perfection and adds a lovely fruity note.
- Unsalted butter: Brings extra richness and helps create a silky base for the sauce.
- Garlic: Three cloves create aromatic warmth that infuses every spoonful.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: For bursts of sweet, tangy flavor that are completely irresistible.
- Italian seasoning: A classic blend that gives the dish its cozy, herby personality.
- Orzo: This rice-shaped pasta soaks up all the flavors and creates a creamy, risotto-like texture.
- Chicken broth: The foundation of the sauce and what gives the orzo its savory depth.
- Heavy cream: Makes everything decadently creamy and ties all the flavors together.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty kick and helps thicken the sauce to perfection.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle, warming heat—add as much or as little as you like.
- Baby spinach (optional): A great way to sneak in some greens without fuss.
- Fresh basil: The perfect finishing touch for freshness and color.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by generously seasoning your chicken thighs or breasts with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken for 4 to 5 minutes per side. You’re looking for that beautiful golden-brown crust and fully cooked-through chicken. Once done, transfer your chicken to a plate and set it aside—the magic is just getting started!
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
In the same pan (don’t clean it out; all those browned bits are flavor gold!), reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. As it melts, toss in the minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Sauté everything for 1 to 2 minutes, just until the garlic is fragrant and the tomatoes start to release their flavor into the butter.
Step 3: Toast the Orzo
Next, stir in the uncooked orzo and toast it for about 1 minute. This step adds a subtle nutty flavor and helps the orzo hold its shape as it cooks up in the sauce. You’ll notice the orzo start to soak up all the aromatic flavors from the pan, setting the stage for a truly delicious base.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cook uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes. Give it a stir every couple of minutes to prevent sticking and ensure the orzo cooks evenly. You’ll know it’s ready when the orzo is tender and the sauce has thickened up to a luscious, creamy consistency.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Greens
Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). If you’re adding spinach, toss it in now—it’ll wilt perfectly in the residual heat. The cheese will melt into the sauce, making it even richer and more velvety. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Return the Chicken and Serve
Nestle the seared chicken back into the pan, spooning some of the luxurious sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for another 2 to 3 minutes so the chicken is heated through and every bite is infused with flavor. Garnish generously with fresh basil, and bring your Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} straight to the table while it’s bubbling and beautiful!
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}
Garnishes
A flourish of fresh basil takes this dish from cozy to downright elegant. You can also add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or a pinch of red pepper flakes for those who like a little more heat. For a pop of color, try a few halved cherry tomatoes or a drizzle of good olive oil just before serving.
Side Dishes
Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} is a star all on its own, but it pairs beautifully with simple sides. Serve it with a crisp green salad, roasted asparagus, or steamed broccoli to balance the richness. A hunk of crusty bread is practically mandatory for mopping up every last drop of the creamy sauce!
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, spoon individual portions into shallow bowls and top each with a mini basil bouquet. Or, serve family-style straight from the pot for a rustic, homey feel—everyone can help themselves and dig in together. You can even portion the orzo into small ramekins for a tapas-style appetizer at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to three days, and the flavors mingle even more as it sits. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent the orzo from drying out.
Freezing
This dish freezes surprisingly well, especially if you leave out the spinach and add it fresh when reheating. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also warm it in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to keep the sauce silky and the chicken juicy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Both chicken thighs and breasts work well in Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}. Thighs are a bit juicier and richer, while breasts are leaner and cook quickly. Just be sure not to overcook whichever cut you choose.
What can I substitute for orzo?
If you don’t have orzo, you can use another small pasta like ditalini or even rice in a pinch. Just adjust the liquid and cooking time as needed so everything ends up creamy and tender.
Is Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} gluten-free?
It can be! Simply swap the regular orzo for a gluten-free version. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free, making this a great option for anyone with sensitivities.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in mushrooms, peas, zucchini, or whatever veggies you love. Just add them when you sauté the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes so they have time to cook through and meld with the sauce.
Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
Yes! Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} is a fantastic meal prep option. Store individual portions in containers and reheat as needed throughout the week—the flavors only get better with time.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a weeknight dinner that feels like a warm hug and tastes like pure comfort, Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} is sure to win you over. Give it a try and watch everyone at your table swoon with each creamy, flavor-packed bite!
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Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a creamy, flavorful one-pot dish featuring tender chicken thighs or breasts simmered with orzo pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. This easy-to-make stovetop recipe blends Italian-inspired seasonings with wholesome ingredients, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and elegant.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce & Orzo
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup uncooked orzo
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Vegetables & Garnish
- 1/2 cup baby spinach (optional)
- Chopped fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Season and Sear Chicken: Season the chicken thighs or breasts with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté Aromatics and Tomatoes: Lower the heat to medium. In the same pan, add butter, minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and the garlic is lightly golden.
- Toast the Orzo: Add the uncooked orzo to the pan and stir frequently, toasting it for about 1 minute. This brings out a nutty flavor in the pasta.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir thoroughly and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Leave uncovered and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the sauce begins to thicken.
- Finish the Sauce: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, crushed red pepper flakes if using, and baby spinach if desired. The spinach will wilt quickly in the warm sauce.
- Reheat Chicken with Sauce: Return the cooked chicken pieces to the pan, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon sauce over the chicken and let everything simmer together for another 2 to 3 minutes to reheat the chicken and marry the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the top before serving. Serve the dish warm, enjoying the creamy, garlicky, and slightly spicy flavors.
Notes
- For extra vegetables, add mushrooms or peas during the sauce cooking step.
- Swap chicken for shrimp for a delicious seafood variation.
- Use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for the best flavor and texture.
- This dish reheats beautifully and makes great leftovers for the next day.
- To make the recipe gluten-free, be sure to use gluten-free orzo pasta.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
