One Pot Marry Me Chicken Orzo

A creamy one pot Marry Me Chicken Orzo dish is a delightful way to impress your loved ones. This recipe combines tender chicken, orzo pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach in a rich Tuscan-inspired sauce. Perfect for weekday dinners or special occasions, this dish brings comfort and flavor together effortlessly. With its quick cooking time and minimal cleanup, you’ll find yourself making it again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This one pot meal comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan creates a rich taste that’s hard to resist.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pot means less mess and more time enjoying your meal.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or paired with a side salad for a complete dinner.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors make this dish visually appealing for gatherings or family meals.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious one pot Marry Me Chicken Orzo, you’ll need some essential tools to make the cooking process smooth.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large deep frying pan
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large deep frying pan: Provides ample space for cooking all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients gently without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate measurements for each ingredient, leading to consistent results.

Ingredients

A creamy one-pot pasta dish combining tender chicken, orzo, sun-dried tomatoes and spinach in a rich Tuscan-inspired sauce.

For the Chicken and Orzo

• 650g chicken breast (about 4), skinless and boneless, chopped
• 250g orzo pasta
• 3 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed
• 170g sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained
• 120g spinach

For the Sauce

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or oil from sun-dried tomatoes)
• 650ml hot chicken stock
• 150ml double cream
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 50g grated Parmesan
• Freshly ground black pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make One Pot Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat oil in a large deep frying pan over medium heat. Cook the chopped chicken pieces for about 5 minutes until colored on all sides.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Reduce the heat. Add crushed garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and paprika. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the garlic softens.

Step 3: Incorporate the Orzo

Stir in the orzo pasta along with hot chicken stock and freshly ground black pepper. Ensure everything is well mixed. Cover the pan and cook for 10 minutes while stirring occasionally until the orzo is almost done.

Step 4: Finish with Spinach and Cream

On the lowest heat setting, add spinach and double cream. Stir continuously for 1-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and cream heats through. Check that the chicken is cooked thoroughly.

Step 5: Serve with Parmesan

Turn off the heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted into the sauce. Serve hot garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

How to Serve One Pot Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Serving One Pot Marry Me Chicken Orzo is simple and versatile. This dish can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various sides to enhance the meal experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions:

With Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top to add color and a burst of freshness.

Accompanied by Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs well, adding crunch and a tangy flavor that complements the creamy orzo.
• Arugula Salad: Tossed with lemon vinaigrette, arugula adds peppery notes that contrast beautifully with the dish.

With Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread for dipping into the rich sauce, making every bite more enjoyable.
• Crusty French Baguette: A slice of crusty baguette is perfect for scooping up the creamy orzo.

Topped with Cheese

• Extra Parmesan: Grate additional Parmesan on top right before serving for an extra cheesy finish.
• Feta Crumbles: Feta adds a tangy twist that enhances the flavors of the dish.

How to Perfect One Pot Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Perfecting your One Pot Marry Me Chicken Orzo is easy with these handy tips. Follow these guidelines to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Boldly season your chicken: Don’t shy away from seasoning the chicken before cooking. This boosts flavor significantly.
• Boldly choose the right pasta: Opt for high-quality orzo pasta; it cooks evenly and absorbs flavors better.
• Boldly use homemade stock: If possible, use homemade chicken stock instead of store-bought for richer flavor.
• Boldly stir occasionally: Stirring prevents the orzo from sticking to the pan and ensures even cooking throughout.
• Boldly adjust creaminess: Feel free to add more cream if you prefer a creamier texture in your sauce.
• Boldly experiment with spices: Try adding a pinch of red chili flakes for heat or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Best Side Dishes for One Pot Marry Me Chicken Orzo

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

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted in garlic enhances flavors without overpowering the main dish.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrition and a pop of color while balancing the richness of the pasta.
3. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers make for a refreshing appetizer that complements this Italian meal.
4. Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter option, serve zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil as a fresh side.
5. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and artichokes creates a flavorful start to your dinner.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes provides a lovely contrast to the savory orzo dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One Pot Marry Me Chicken Orzo, it’s easy to overlook certain steps. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using the wrong pasta: Not all pasta cooks the same way. Stick with orzo for this recipe to ensure the right texture and absorption of flavors.

• Skipping the browning step: Failing to properly brown the chicken can lead to a less flavorful dish. Take your time to cook the chicken until it’s golden on all sides.

• Not stirring frequently: Orzo can stick together if not stirred enough during cooking. Make sure to stir occasionally to keep everything evenly cooked.

• Adding cream too early: Mixing in the cream too soon can cause it to curdle. Wait until the spinach has wilted before adding it for a smooth finish.

• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Tasting as you go is key. Don’t forget to adjust salt and pepper based on your preferences after cooking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing One Pot Marry Me Chicken Orzo

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing excess air.
• Store for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating One Pot Marry Me Chicken Orzo

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high in 1-minute increments until hot, stirring in between.

• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or water if needed. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is One Pot Marry Me Chicken Orzo?

One Pot Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a creamy pasta dish featuring tender chicken, orzo pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach cooked together in one pot for maximum flavor and convenience.

Can I customize this One Pot Marry Me Chicken Orzo recipe?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, switch out the proteins for shrimp or tofu, or use different herbs according to your taste.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can also check that it’s no longer pink inside when cut open.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! One Pot Marry Me Chicken Orzo is perfect for meal prep. It stores well and reheats easily, making it ideal for quick dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

One Pot Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a delightful combination of flavors that makes weeknight dinners effortless and enjoyable. Its creamy texture and rich taste are sure to impress family and friends alike. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or spices. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!