This comforting, one-pan recipe for Marry Me Chicken Orzo combines tender chicken, rice-shaped pasta, and a creamy sun-dried tomato and spinach sauce that is so rich and flavorful, it might just make you fall in love! Packed with Mediterranean-inspired flavors, this dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. The juicy chicken is perfectly seasoned with spices, while the orzo absorbs the creamy sauce, creating a satisfying meal that requires minimal cleanup. Whether you’re cooking for two or a family, this dish is sure to be a hit!
The creamy sauce made with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan is bursting with flavor, while the orzo pasta cooks right in the skillet, soaking up all the deliciousness. This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves a quick and comforting dinner with bold, savory flavors. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re indulging, without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon oil from the sun-dried tomatoes jar
- 1 1⁄2 – 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 1-2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1⁄2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 cup (8 ounces) dry orzo pasta
- 2 1⁄2 cups chicken stock
- 1 cup heavy cream, room temperature
- 2 cups baby spinach, packed
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Chicken: In a large, deep skillet or pan, warm the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is golden and no longer pink in the center.
- Add Garlic & Seasonings: Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
- Cook Orzo: Add the orzo pasta and chicken stock. Bring to a gentle boil, then lower the heat, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until the orzo is nearly tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.
- Add Cream & Spinach: Turn the heat to the lowest setting and slowly pour in the room-temperature cream. Stir in the spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes, until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Finish & Serve: Turn off the heat, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish & Enjoy: Serve immediately with fresh basil on top, and enjoy this creamy, comforting dish!
Perfect for a cozy dinner with minimal cleanup, this one-pan dish delivers a blend of flavors that are sure to make it a regular favorite.
