Name: The BEST Marry Me Chicken Orzo (One Pot Recipe)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into pieces; 1 tablespoon olive oil (or oil from sun-dried tomatoes jar); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), chopped; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups chicken stock; 1/2 cup double cream; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 cups baby spinach; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

The BEST Marry Me Chicken Orzo (One Pot Recipe)

This Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a quick and creamy one-pot meal that combines succulent chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and orzo pasta in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s packed with flavors from garlic, paprika, and Parmesan cheese, making it a perfect dinner that only takes 30 minutes to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in one pot.
Flavor Packed: The combination of chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach in a creamy sauce makes every bite delicious.
Family Favorite: Simple ingredients that appeal to both kids and adults.

Ingredients

Chicken breast (skinless, boneless)
Olive oil (or oil from sun-dried tomatoes jar)
Garlic (fresh or jarred)
Sun-dried tomatoes (in oil)
Dried oregano
Paprika
Orzo pasta
Chicken stock
Double cream
Parmesan cheese
Spinach (baby spinach works best)
Freshly ground black pepper

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Chicken: In a large pan, sauté chicken pieces in olive oil until browned, then add garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and paprika.
Add Orzo: Stir in orzo, chicken stock, and pepper. Cover the pan and simmer.
Add Spinach and Cream: Once the orzo is nearly cooked, add spinach and double cream. Stir until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens.
Finish with Parmesan: Turn off the heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian: Use a plant-based meat alternative and vegetable stock.
Add Veggies: Include mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Add a splash of water or broth to reheat and prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta like ditalini or mini penne.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This recipe is best served immediately, but you can store leftovers in the fridge.

3. How do I prevent the cream from splitting?

Ensure the heat is low when adding the cream and stir continuously.

4. Can I freeze leftovers?

While it’s not ideal, you can freeze leftovers, though the texture may change slightly upon reheating.

5. Can I use dried spinach instead of fresh?

Fresh spinach is preferred for this dish, but you can use dried spinach if needed.

6. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier alternative.

7. Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pan for a spicy kick.

8. What can I serve this with?

Serve with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

9. Can I substitute the Parmesan cheese?

You can substitute with Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a similar flavor.

10. How do I store the sun-dried tomatoes?

Store leftover sun-dried tomatoes in their oil in an airtight container in the fridge.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s simple to make and sure to impress. The combination of chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach in a rich sauce makes this one-pot meal an absolute winner for any night of the week.