Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a delightful dish that brings together juicy chicken and a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, served over perfectly cooked orzo. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a romantic dinner date or a cozy family meal. Its rich flavors and comforting textures make it an irresistible choice that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious meal on the table in about 35 minutes.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, spices, and creamy sauce creates an explosion of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish adapts to your needs effortlessly.
• Nutritious Ingredients: This recipe includes wholesome ingredients like spinach and chicken, making it a balanced option for dinner.
• One-Pot Wonder: Cook everything in one pot for easy cleanup, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle of multiple dishes.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential kitchen gadgets to gather before you start making Marry Me Chicken Orzo.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking the chicken and orzo together, ensuring even heat distribution.
• Wooden spoon: Helps avoid scratching your cookware while stirring ingredients smoothly.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures accuracy in ingredient portions for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

This Marry Me chicken orzo combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sun dried tomato sauce and al dente orzo for a delicious meal.

For the Chicken

• 3 boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 3/4 tbsp sweet smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Sauce

• 1 tsp sun-dried tomato powder
• 1 tbsp sun-dried tomato oil (from the jar)
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp dried shallots
• 1 tbsp minced onion
• 2 tbsp minced garlic
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (diced)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp sweet smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp basil

For Cooking

• 2 3/4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup Orzo

For Creaminess

• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup spinach (diced)
• 3/4 cup parmesan cheese (shredded)

Garnish

• Chopped fresh basil (for garnish)

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by seasoning the chicken thighs with sweet smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Ensure that they are evenly coated on all sides.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add sun-dried tomato oil. Once hot, place the seasoned chicken thighs in the pot. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the pot and set aside.

Step 3: Create the Sauce Base

In the same pot, add butter along with dried shallots, minced onion, and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant—around 2-3 minutes. Stir in diced sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, sweet smoked paprika, salt, and basil.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Pour in chicken broth while scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the Orzo pasta to the mixture. Stir well to combine everything together.

Step 5: Add Back Chicken

Return the seared chicken thighs to the pot. Bring everything to a gentle simmer then cover with a lid. Cook for about 15-20 minutes until the Orzo is al dente.

Step 6: Final Touches

Once cooked, stir in heavy cream and diced spinach into the mixture. Allow it to cook for another few minutes until heated through. Finally, sprinkle shredded parmesan cheese on top before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Marry Me Chicken Orzo!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Serving Marry Me Chicken Orzo is all about enhancing its rich flavors and creamy texture. This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes to create a delightful dining experience.

Pairing with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Fresh Basil: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil on top for an aromatic touch.
• Parsley or Cilantro: Add a sprinkle of parsley or cilantro for extra freshness and color.

Adding Crunch

• Toasted Pine Nuts: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts for a crunchy contrast that elevates the creamy orzo.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with slices of warm garlic bread to scoop up the delicious sauce.

Complementing with Vegetables

• Roasted Asparagus: A side of roasted asparagus adds a healthy crunch and vibrant color.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli complements the dish’s flavors while adding nutrition.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Making the perfect Marry Me Chicken Orzo requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Follow these suggestions for an amazing meal.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh chicken and vegetables to enhance flavor and texture.
• Control Cooking Time: Ensure chicken is cooked through without being dry by monitoring cooking time closely.
• Adjust Creaminess: For a richer sauce, add more heavy cream gradually until desired consistency is reached.
• Season Wisely: Taste as you go; adjust salt, pepper, and spices according to your preference.
• Let It Rest: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving to let flavors meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Pairing side dishes with Marry Me Chicken Orzo can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options that complement the flavors beautifully.

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons adds freshness to the meal.
2. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: This salad features quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese for a nutritious side packed with flavor.
3. Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy garlic roasted potatoes provide a hearty accompaniment that balances the creaminess of orzo.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Mix bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant grilled with olive oil for a smoky touch that pairs well with chicken.
5. Caprese Salad: Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze for a refreshing contrast.
6. Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity that complements the richness of the main dish.
7. Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach seasoned with garlic adds vibrant color and nutrients without overpowering the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Marry Me Chicken Orzo, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using cold chicken – Always start with chicken that is at room temperature. This ensures even cooking and better flavor absorption.
• Skipping the seasoning – Don’t underestimate the power of spices. Season your chicken well to enhance the dish’s overall taste.
• Overcooking orzo – Be careful not to overcook your orzo. It should be al dente for the perfect texture in your dish.
• Neglecting the sauce – A rich sauce is essential. Make sure to let it simmer long enough for flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Not adding greens – Adding spinach not only boosts nutrition but also adds vibrant color. Don’t skip this step!

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Marry Me Chicken Orzo

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Marry Me Chicken Orzo

• Oven – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place orzo in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave – Transfer orzo to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop – Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Marry Me Chicken Orzo?

Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a delightful dish that features tender chicken thighs cooked in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce served over orzo pasta.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While orzo is ideal, you can substitute it with any small pasta like ditalini or even rice for different textures.

How can I customize Marry Me Chicken Orzo?

Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for more nutrients and flavor. You can also adjust seasonings based on your taste preferences.

Is Marry Me Chicken Orzo suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and makes an excellent option for meal prepping lunches throughout the week.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a comforting and versatile recipe that combines tender chicken with rich flavors. Its creamy sun-dried tomato sauce pairs perfectly with orzo, making it an irresistible meal. Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress!

---