Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}

This Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} is a delightful and easy recipe that brings together delicious flavors in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this dish combines tender chicken, creamy orzo, and vibrant spinach for a meal that’s both satisfying and impressive. The one-pot nature of this recipe makes cleanup a breeze, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your culinary creation with family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish is ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic nights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Enjoy the rich taste of sun-dried tomatoes and herbs that elevate the chicken to new heights.
• One Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to savor your meal; everything cooks together beautifully in one pan.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for any occasion—from a family dinner to entertaining guests, this recipe fits all settings.
• Nutritious Meal: Packed with protein and fresh greens, it’s as healthy as it is delicious.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Marry Me Chicken Orzo, gather your tools. Having everything in place will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep frying pan
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon
• Ladle
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep frying pan: Ideal for cooking everything in one pot without spilling over.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware and helps mix ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 650 g Chicken breast (about x4) (Skinless and boneless. Chopped)
• 1 tbsp Olive oil (Or oil from sun dried tomatoes jar)
• 3 Garlic cloves (Peeled and crushed)

For the Flavoring

• 170 g Sun-dried tomatoes (in oil) (Drained)
• 1 tsp Oregano
• 2 tsp Paprika

For the Orzo Mix

• 250 g Orzo
• 650 ml Hot chicken stock
• 150 ml Double cream

For the Greens

• 120 g Spinach
• 50 g Parmesan (Grated)
• Freshly ground black pepper

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

In a large, deep frying pan, heat the oil over medium heat. When it’s hot:
1. Carefully add the chopped chicken pieces.
2. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until all sides are starting to color.

Step 2: Add Flavors

Reduce the heat and incorporate more flavor:
1. Add the crushed garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and paprika.
2. Stir for 3-5 minutes until the garlic softens and releases its aroma.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

Next comes the orzo:
1. Add the orzo to the pan along with hot chicken stock and some freshly ground black pepper.
2. Give everything a good stir and cover with a lid.
3. Cook for approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is nearly cooked through.

Step 4: Finish with Cream and Spinach

Now it’s time to bring it all together:
1. Turn down the heat to its lowest setting.
2. Add in the spinach and double cream; stir well for 1-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the cream heats through.
3. Ensure that the chicken is fully cooked before proceeding.

Step 5: Serve with Parmesan

Finally:
1. Turn off the heat.
2. Stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted into a creamy delight.

Enjoy your delicious Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}

This Marry Me Chicken Orzo is not just a delightful one-pot meal but also a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Sprinkle fresh basil on top for a burst of flavor and a pop of color.
• Parsley: Chopped parsley adds freshness and pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Topped with Cheese

• Feta Cheese: Crumble feta cheese on each serving for a tangy twist.
• More Parmesan: A little extra grated parmesan can intensify the cheesy goodness.

Accompanied by Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the orzo.
• Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing create a satisfying contrast.

Paired with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• Crusty Baguette: A slice of baguette is perfect for soaking up every last bit of flavor.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}

To achieve the best results with your Marry Me Chicken Orzo, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance the flavors and texture of your dish.

• Use Quality Chicken: Select fresh, high-quality chicken breast for a tender and juicy outcome.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste while cooking and adjust oregano and paprika to suit your palate.
• Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Keep an eye on it; orzo should be al dente for the best texture.
• Add More Vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
• Customize Creaminess: Adjust cream quantity based on your desired richness; less cream results in a lighter dish.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy it right after cooking for optimal creaminess and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}

Pairing side dishes with your Marry Me Chicken Orzo can elevate your meal further. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds depth to the meal.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Tender steamed broccoli provides a nutritious complement and vibrant color.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast.
4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting side that pairs well with any sauce.
5. Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and lemon makes for an aromatic side that balances flavors.
6. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus adds a touch of elegance and crunch alongside the orzo.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the final dish.

• Ignoring the chicken size: Cut the chicken pieces evenly for consistent cooking. This prevents some pieces from being undercooked while others are overdone.
• Overcooking orzo: Keep an eye on the orzo as it cooks. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, so stir occasionally and taste for doneness.
• Not seasoning properly: Always taste before serving. If you find it bland, add more seasoning or freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavor.
• Skipping the cream: The cream adds richness and creaminess to the dish. Don’t skip this step; it’s essential for achieving that delightful texture.
• Using cold chicken stock: Make sure your chicken stock is hot when added to the pan. This helps cook the orzo evenly and speeds up the cooking process.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• It’s best to leave out any cream until reheating.

Reheating Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute increments until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} that may help enhance your cooking experience.

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, you can substitute with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or couscous, but cooking times may vary.

How do I customize Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}?

Feel free to add vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This one pot meal stores well and is perfect for meal prepping lunches or dinners throughout the week.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?

You can substitute with fresh tomatoes or even roasted red peppers for a different flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} is not only quick and simple but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or protein options, making it a great choice for any weeknight dinner. Try this recipe today and discover how easy it is to make a delicious one pot meal!