Marry Me Chicken Orzo

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Creamy, dreamy, and utterly irresistible, this Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a one-skillet wonder that brings dinner to life with rich flavors and hearty comfort. With juicy chicken, perfectly cooked orzo, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh baby spinach, this dish is both luxurious and soul-satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that makes people say, “Where has this been all my life?”

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Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Imagine tender bites of chicken wrapped in a creamy garlic parmesan sauce, nestled into orzo pasta that absorbs all the deliciousness like a sponge. It’s cozy enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for company. If you’re looking for a recipe that will impress without a ton of effort, this is it.

What Kind of Orzo Should I Use?

Look for traditional durum wheat orzo, which is widely available in most U.S. grocery stores. It cooks quickly and absorbs sauces beautifully, making it perfect for creamy skillet dishes like this one. You can also use whole wheat orzo for a slightly nuttier taste and added fiber.

Ingredients for the Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Chicken Breast: Lean and protein-rich, diced chicken breast is seared for flavor and forms the hearty base of this dish.

Orzo Pasta: Small rice-shaped pasta that cooks directly in the sauce, soaking up all the creamy goodness.

Garlic Cloves: A few minced cloves infuse the entire dish with aromatic depth.

Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Tangy and sweet, these add a burst of concentrated flavor and gorgeous color.

Baby Spinach: Stirred in at the end for a pop of green and freshness.

Chicken Broth: Builds the foundation of the sauce and helps cook the orzo.

Heavy Cream: Adds richness and silkiness to the sauce.

Parmesan Cheese: For a salty, nutty boost that ties everything together.

Olive Oil + Butter: Used to sauté and build flavor from the base up.

Salt, Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes: Simple seasonings that elevate every bite.


How To Make the Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Season diced chicken breast with salt and pepper, then cook until golden on all sides and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, melt a bit of butter and add minced garlic. Let it cook until fragrant (about 1 minute). Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and let the flavors meld for another minute.

Step 3: Add Orzo and Liquid

Pour in the dry orzo, stir to coat with the garlic tomato mixture, then add chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well and bring to a low simmer.

Step 4: Simmer to Creamy Perfection

Let the orzo simmer uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and the liquid has thickened into a creamy sauce.

Step 5: Stir in Cheese and Greens

Reduce the heat to low. Stir in grated parmesan cheese and fresh spinach. Add back the cooked chicken and stir until everything is warm, creamy, and well coated.


Tips for Serving and Storing Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Serve this dish immediately for the creamiest texture. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or crusty bread. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

What to Serve With Marry Me Chicken Orzo?

Garlic Bread

A crispy, buttery slice of garlic bread is perfect for scooping up that luscious sauce.

Caesar Salad

The crispness and tanginess of Caesar salad contrast beautifully with the creamy orzo.

Roasted Asparagus

Adds a pop of color and fresh bite to your plate.

Lemon Butter Green Beans

Bright and citrusy, these lighten up the meal just right.

White Wine

A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the creamy flavors.


Want More Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this creamy chicken skillet, here are more crave-worthy meals to add to your menu:

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Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe a pinch of Cajun seasoning or a swirl of cream cheese? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.


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Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Marry Me Chicken Orzo


  • Author: Julia Walton
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Craving something rich, creamy, and utterly satisfying? This Marry Me Chicken Orzo delivers the perfect blend of savory chicken, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan cheese, and tender orzo pasta—all in one skillet. It’s a quick dinner solution for busy nights, yet elegant enough for dinner guests. Whether you’re looking for easy dinner ideas, comforting food recipes, or a romantic meal, this easy recipe has you covered. Great for cozy dinners or weekly meal prep, and packed with protein, it’s one of the most versatile food ideas you’ll want to make again and again.


Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon butter

1 pound chicken breast, diced

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

1 cup orzo pasta, dry

2 cups chicken broth

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

2 cups baby spinach

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)


Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

2. In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.

4. Add orzo and stir to coat. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.

5. Let it simmer uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and sauce is creamy.

6. Reduce heat to low. Add parmesan cheese and spinach. Stir until spinach wilts.

7. Return the chicken to the skillet, stir well, and heat through.

8. Serve hot with your favorite side or salad.

Notes

For extra richness, stir in 2 tablespoons of cream cheese before serving.

Use rotisserie chicken for an even faster version of this dish.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: One-Pan
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1.5 cups
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: easy recipe, one pot dinner, creamy chicken, comfort food, skillet pasta

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