Description
This one-pot Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a creamy, savory dish made with tender chicken, orzo pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and a blend of Italian seasonings. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s easy to make, full of flavor, and guaranteed to impress!
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 ½ cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup orzo pasta
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
¼ cup grated Parmesan (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic and red pepper flakes for 30 seconds.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Simmer gently.
- Add orzo, oregano, thyme, and Italian seasoning. Stir and cook for 8-10 minutes until orzo is tender.
- Return chicken to skillet, cover, and cook for another 5-7 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and spinach. Let spinach wilt.
- Remove from heat and garnish with basil and additional Parmesan.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Protein Variations: You can swap the chicken for turkey or shrimp.
Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes or cayenne for extra heat.
Pasta Substitution: Use small pasta shapes like ditalini, couscous, or penne if orzo isn’t available.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 520 kcal
