Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Marry Me Chicken Orzo is an irresistible dish that perfectly blends tender chicken with a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce and al dente orzo, making it ideal for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner, a romantic date night, or a gathering with friends, this delightful recipe is sure to impress. The rich flavors and comforting texture make it a standout choice for those looking to elevate their mealtime experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Rich: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and creamy sauce creates an explosion of flavor.
• Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the dish by adding vegetables or using different proteins.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, everyone will be asking for seconds.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: This dish brings warmth and satisfaction to your dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to prepare Marry Me Chicken Orzo.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Large skillet: Provides ample space for cooking the chicken and mixing ingredients without spilling.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring sauces without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accuracy in your ingredient amounts for perfect results every time.

Ingredients

This Marry Me chicken orzo combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce and al dente orzo for a delicious meal.

For the Chicken

• 3 boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 3/4 tbsp sweet smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Sauce

• 1 tsp sun-dried tomato powder
• 1 tbsp sun-dried tomato oil (from the jar)
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp dried shallots
• 1 tbsp minced onion
• 2 tbsp minced garlic
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (diced)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp sweet smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp basil

For the Pasta

• 2 3/4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup Orzo

For Creaminess

• 3/4 cup heavy cream

For the Greens

• 1 cup spinach (diced)

For Garnish

• 3/4 cup parmesan cheese (shredded)
• Chopped fresh basil (for garnish)

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs with sweet smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. In a large skillet, heat the sun-dried tomato oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken thighs and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add dried shallots, minced onion, and garlic; sauté until fragrant. Stir in diced sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, additional Italian seasoning, sweet smoked paprika, salt, and basil. Cook for another minute.

Step 3: Combine with Broth and Orzo

Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in orzo pasta and return to a boil. Reduce heat to low and let simmer until orzo is al dente, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 4: Add Cream and Spinach

Once orzo is cooked through, stir in heavy cream and diced spinach. Mix well until spinach wilts. Return cooked chicken thighs to the skillet; nestle them into the creamy mixture.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese

Sprinkle shredded parmesan cheese over the top of the dish. Allow it to melt slightly before serving.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving hot. Enjoy your delicious Marry Me Chicken Orzo!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Serving Marry Me chicken orzo can enhance the dining experience and make for a delightful meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your dish and impress your guests.

Pair it with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette complements the creamy orzo beautifully.
• Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and tangy dressing provide a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken orzo.

Add Garlic Bread

• Toasted Baguette: Serve slices of toasted baguette brushed with garlic butter for a crunchy side that is perfect for soaking up the sauce.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Top your garlic bread with cheese for an extra layer of flavor and indulgence.

Include Roasted Vegetables

• Seasonal Roasted Veggies: Roasting vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots adds color and nutrition to your plate.
• Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts offer a tasty, slightly bitter contrast to the creamy orzo.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Fresh Basil: Sprinkle fresh basil on top of your dish for an aromatic finish that enhances flavor.
• Parsley Sprigs: A few parsley leaves add freshness and brighten up the presentation.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Perfecting Marry Me chicken orzo involves attention to detail in both preparation and cooking. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Use Quality Chicken: Start with fresh, high-quality chicken thighs for maximum tenderness and flavor.
• Sauté Carefully: Sauté the garlic until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness in the sauce.
• Don’t Overcook Orzo: Cook orzo just until al dente, as it will continue to absorb liquid while resting.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste during cooking and adjust seasonings according to your preferences; don’t hesitate to add more herbs!
• Add Spinach Last: Stir in spinach at the end of cooking so it retains its vibrant color and nutrients.
• Let It Rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving; this helps meld the flavors together.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Pairing your Marry Me chicken orzo with the right side dishes can create a balanced and satisfying meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side that complements the rich flavors.
2. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus offers a fresh crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy orzo.
3. Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges baked until crispy add a hearty component that kids will love.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without competing with the main dish’s flavors.
5. Caprese Salad Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil on skewers make for an easy-to-eat, refreshing side option.
6. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles serve as a low-carb alternative that still satisfies alongside the orzo.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Marry Me Chicken Orzo, avoiding common mistakes can ensure a delicious outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to use enough salt and spices for a flavorful dish.
• Bold cooking time: Overcooking the chicken will result in dry meat. Cook until just done, ensuring it remains juicy and tender.
• Bold pasta texture: Cooking orzo too long can make it mushy. Aim for al dente to achieve the perfect texture in your dish.
• Bold ingredient preparation: Not chopping ingredients evenly can cause uneven cooking. Dice your vegetables uniformly for consistent results.
• Bold neglecting garnishes: Skipping fresh basil as a garnish can diminish presentation and flavor. Always add fresh herbs for a burst of freshness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Marry Me Chicken Orzo

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Marry Me Chicken Orzo

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Marry Me Chicken Orzo?

Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a delightful dish featuring chicken cooked in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce served with orzo pasta. It’s perfect for dinner!

How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and juices run clear.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Absolutely! You can add your favorite vegetables or swap out herbs based on your taste preferences.

Is Marry Me Chicken Orzo suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this dish stores well and makes an excellent option for meal prep due to its great flavor even after reheating.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Orzo is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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