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Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Orzo including chicken, orzo, cream, and Parmesan

Marry Me Chicken Orzo

A creamy, savory one-pot dinner with golden-seared chicken, tender orzo, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cream sauce — so delicious it might just spark a proposal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound chicken breasts cut into chunks
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 0.5 cup sun-dried tomatoes oil-packed, drained, chopped
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 0.75 cup heavy cream
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • fresh spinach optional
  • red pepper flakes optional, for heat
  • fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • large skillet or pot
  • cutting board
  • sharp knife
  • measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Sear 4–5 minutes until golden and cooked through (165°F/74°C). Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, sauté garlic for 1 minute, then add sun-dried tomatoes.
  3. Add orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
  5. Cook orzo uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring often, until al dente and sauce thickens.
  6. Stir in Parmesan, spinach (if using), and return chicken to the pot. Simmer 2–3 minutes until creamy.
  7. Garnish with fresh herbs and red pepper flakes. Serve hot.

Notes

Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for richer flavor. Toasting orzo adds nuttiness. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. Add spinach at the end to keep it vibrant.