Marry Me Chicken Orzo

This marry me chicken orzo is a creamy one pan favorite perfect for a cozy family dinner. Made with tender chicken, rich sauce, and comforting orzo, it offers big flavor with simple ingredients and minimal fuss. This dish blends Italian-inspired seasoning with the satisfying texture of orzo to create a meal that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen.

I first made this recipe when I wanted a fuss-free dinner that still impressed. Since then, it has become one of my go-to dishes for guests and family nights because everyone loves the comforting combination of creamy, savory, and fresh flavors.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breast: cubed for quick and even cooking
• Olive oil: provides a fruity base and helps the chicken brown beautifully
• Garlic cloves: mashed to release maximum aroma and flavor into the dish
• Sun dried tomatoes: drained to add a tangy, slightly sweet depth
• Italian seasoning: for an herby, savory backbone—look for a fresh blend if possible
• Paprika: brings warmth and a mild smokiness to the chicken
• Kosher salt: enhances all the flavors without being overpowering
• Ground black pepper: adds a gentle kick and complexity
• Orzo: delivers the comforting texture of small pasta pearls that soak up the sauce
• Chicken broth or water: helps cook the orzo and build the sauce—homemade broth will add extra richness
• Full fat coconut milk or heavy cream: makes the sauce luxuriously creamy—choose cream for a richer outcome
• Fresh spinach: for a pop of color and a boost of nutrients
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: to finish—adds a salty, savory depth that ties everything together

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sear the Chicken:

Season the cubed chicken with half of the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside to make room for the next steps.

Sauté the Aromatics and Tomatoes:

In the same skillet, add the mashed garlic and sun dried tomatoes. Cook over medium heat until the mixture releases fragrant aromas, about 1-2 minutes. This step builds a flavorful foundation for the sauce by infusing the oil with garlic and tomato essence.

Toast the Orzo and Season:

Add the orzo to the skillet along with the remaining Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir constantly for about one minute to toast the orzo slightly. Toasting the orzo before adding liquid helps develop a deeper nutty flavor in the finished dish.

Cook the Orzo:

Pour in the chicken broth or water and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for about 10 to 12 minutes or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Finish with Cream and Greens:

Stir the coconut milk or heavy cream into the cooked orzo and mix well. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet to warm through. Add the fresh spinach and fold it in until wilted, which only takes a minute or two.

Add Cheese and Rest:

Finally, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Remove from heat and let the dish rest for a few minutes—this allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve warm for a satisfying meal.

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Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water and gently warm on the stovetop to prevent the sauce from thickening too much. Fresh spinach can be added freshly during reheating to keep it vibrant.

Ingredient Substitutions

Chicken thighs can be swapped in for chicken breast for extra juiciness and flavor. Heavy cream can be replaced with half and half or evaporated milk for a lighter option, though the sauce will be less rich. If you don’t have sun dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers add a different but delicious sweetness. For dairy-free, omit the Parmesan or try a sprinkle of nutritional yeast.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this chicken orzo with a crisp green salad and some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top brightens the dish if you want an extra touch of freshness. It also pairs nicely with a glass of light white wine or sparkling water with lemon.

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Cultural Context

While inspired by Italian flavors, this dish offers a modern comfort food spin by combining traditional seasonings and pasta with coconut milk for richness. It’s a great example of how global ingredients can blend into familiar home cooking, making it approachable but exciting.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What cut of chicken works best for this dish?

Boneless, skinless chicken breast cubes cook evenly and absorb seasonings well, making them ideal for this meal.

→ Can I substitute the orzo with another grain?

Yes, small pasta shapes like couscous or small shells may be used, but cooking times may vary slightly.

→ How can I ensure the sauce is creamy without curdling?

Adding coconut milk or cream at a gentle simmer and stirring continuously helps maintain a smooth, luscious sauce.

→ Is it necessary to toast the orzo before simmering?

Toasting the orzo briefly enhances its nutty flavor and helps it hold texture during cooking.

→ Can fresh spinach be replaced with another green?

Yes, baby kale or Swiss chard can be folded in similarly, though cooking times may differ slightly to avoid overcooking.