One Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s as simple as it is sensational, let me introduce you to the magic of One Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo. This dish delivers an unbeatable combination of juicy, tender chicken and creamy, flavorful orzo pasta all cooked together in a single pan. From the rich, garlicky tomato sauce to the hints of fresh herbs and parmesan, it’s no wonder that this recipe wins hearts and satisfies hungry appetites every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Prepare a complete meal in one pan to save time and reduce cleanup.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and parmesan creates a savory, rich taste.
• Family-Friendly: Pleasing for all ages with tender chicken and creamy orzo everybody loves.
• Versatile Comfort: Adjust spices, herbs, or protein easily to suit your preferences or pantry staples.
• Ready in Under 40 Minutes: Perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor or quality.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of One Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each item brings a unique texture, aroma, and color to the pan, creating a harmonious dish that’s as pretty as it is delicious.

• Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless for quick cooking and a tender finish.
• Orzo Pasta: Small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks perfectly in the sauce for creamy texture.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add intense, slightly sweet tomato flavor that deepens the sauce.
• Garlic: Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic notes that complement the chicken and orzo.
• Chicken Broth: Necessary for cooking the orzo and adding savory depth.
• Heavy Cream or Half and Half: Creates a luscious, creamy finish that binds all ingredients.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds that perfect salty, nutty kick that elevates the entire dish.
• Fresh Basil or Italian Seasoning: Brightens and balances the richness with fresh herbal accents.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing and adding silky richness in every bite.

Variations for One Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo

The wonderful thing about One Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo is how easy it is to customize. Feel free to tweak the ingredients or swap proteins to fit your dietary preferences or what’s in your kitchen.

• Protein Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp, turkey, or tofu for a different twist.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut milk or cashew cream and nutritional yeast instead of cream and parmesan.
• Veggie Boost: Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to up the vegetable content.
• Spicy Kick: Toss in crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for heat.
• Herb Variations: Try fresh thyme, oregano, or parsley instead of basil for different flavors.

How to Make One Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown and cooked through, roughly 5-7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Tomatoes

In the same pan, add a touch more olive oil if needed and toss in minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook until fragrant and slightly softened for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Step 3: Add Orzo and Broth

Stir in the dry orzo pasta to coat in the garlic tomato mixture. Pour in chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits, then bring it to a simmer. This will cook the pasta and infuse it with flavor.

Step 4: Return Chicken and Add Cream

Put the seared chicken back in the pan on top of the orzo. Pour in heavy cream or half and half and let everything simmer gently until the chicken is fully cooked and the orzo is tender and creamy, around 12-15 minutes.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Herbs

Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese over the dish and stir until melted and silky. Add fresh basil or Italian seasoning, adjust salt and pepper to taste, and let it rest a few minutes to meld flavors before serving.

Pro Tips for Making One Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo

• Even Chicken Thickness: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking.
• Use Low and Slow Heat: Simmer gently after adding broth and cream to prevent the dairy from curdling.
• Don’t Overcook Orzo: Keep an eye on the pasta; it should be tender but still slightly al dente.
• Sun-Dried Tomato Quality: Opt for oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for richer flavor or rehydrate dry ones before use.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes off the heat; flavors deepen and sauce thickens.

How to Serve One Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of parmesan, or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil make excellent garnishes that add fresh flair and richness right before serving.

Side Dishes

Pair this hearty one-pan meal with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread to round out the plate beautifully without overwhelming the main dish.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in rustic bowls for a cozy feel, or plate elegantly with a sprig of herbs and lemon wedges on the side to brighten every bite with a pop of citrus.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool leftovers completely before storing in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The dish keeps well for up to 3 days while retaining its creamy texture and flavor.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce and keep everything creamy and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work great and add extra juiciness and flavor; just adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure they’re cooked through.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply swap the chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms or use plant-based protein alternatives and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What type of orzo is best for this recipe?

Regular orzo pasta is best as it cooks evenly and absorbs the sauce beautifully, but whole wheat or gluten-free options can work for dietary needs.

How spicy is this dish? Can I add heat?

The classic version isn’t spicy, but you can easily add crushed red pepper flakes or fresh chili to spice it up to your liking.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prep the chicken and chop ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to cook and combine everything fresh for maximum flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo is truly a game-changer for any weeknight dinner. It strikes the perfect balance between effortless prep, comforting flavors, and impressive presentation. Once you try it, this deliciously creamy, garlicky, sun-dried tomato-infused dish will quickly become a favorite in your regular rotation. So grab your skillet and get ready to win dinner tonight!

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