There’s nothing quite like making a meal that surprises my loved ones. I remember a calm Wednesday evening. I decided to try Marry Me Chicken Orzo, said to have a romantic flair.
I wanted to make a comforting dinner with creamy tomato sauce, tender chicken, and savory orzo. As I sautéed garlic, I could already see the smiles at the dinner table. People say this easy chicken orzo recipe could even inspire an engagement!
With just a handful of ingredients and under 30 minutes of cooking time, I knew I was onto something special. Little did I know, this dish would impress my friends and become a weekly favorite.
What is Marry Me Chicken?
Marry Me Chicken is a dish that tastes so good, it might make you want to get married. It has tender chicken and a creamy sauce with garlic and herbs. It’s a mix of comfort and elegance, great for many occasions.
Origin of the Recipe
The recipe for Marry Me Chicken comes from many cooks, including famous chef Ina Garten. It’s simple and can be made in different ways, like one pot chicken orzo. It’s been shared a lot online, with 38.8K shares of the Orzo recipe alone.
Why is it So Popular?
Many love Marry Me Chicken because it’s quick to make, under 30 minutes. It uses basic ingredients like chicken, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. The flavors are rich and comforting, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast | 1.5 pounds |
| Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic | 4-5 cloves |
| Sun-Dried Tomatoes | ¾ cup (packed in oil) |
| Italian Seasoning | 2 teaspoons |
| Paprika | 2 teaspoons |
| Kosher Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Ground Black Pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Orzo | 1 cup |
| Chicken Broth | 2 ¾ cups |
| Coconut Milk or Heavy Cream | ¾ cup |
| Fresh Spinach | 2 large handfuls |
| Parmesan Cheese | ¾ cup (freshly grated) |
Why This is the Perfect Easy Weekday Meal
Marry Me Chicken Orzo is great for busy weeknights. It’s easy to make and tastes good. You can have it ready in under 30 minutes.
Quick Cooking Time
This recipe fits into a busy schedule. It cooks in 35 minutes or less. You can enjoy your meal without spending too much time cooking.
One-Pan Convenience
Using one pan makes cooking and cleaning up easy. It all cooks together. This makes dinner time less stressful.
Hearty Ingredients
Marry Me Chicken Orzo is both comforting and healthy. It has chicken, spinach, and cherry tomatoes. You can also add shrimp or chorizo for extra flavor.
Ingredients Needed for Marry Me Chicken Orzo
To make the tasty Marry Me Chicken Orzo, I pick out key ingredients. This dish looks good and tastes great. Here’s what I use for a yummy chicken orzo.
Chicken Variations
I like to use boneless skinless chicken breasts for a lean choice. Chicken thighs add a richer taste. I use 1.5 pounds of chicken for a big meal that feeds six.
Essential Herbs and Seasonings
The herbs and seasonings make this recipe special. I add garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Fresh spinach and lemon juice make it even better.
Optional Ingredients to Enhance Flavor
For creaminess, I might add heavy cream or coconut milk. Parmesan cheese on top is a nice touch. Sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes can make it even tastier.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless chicken breasts or thighs | 1.5 pounds | Can substitute for thighs for extra flavor |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | For sautéing the chicken |
| Garlic cloves | 3 cloves | Chopped |
| Sun-dried tomatoes | 1/2 cup | Drained |
| Orzo pasta | 1 cup | Dried |
| Chicken broth | 2.5 cups | Low sodium or regular |
| Fresh spinach | 2 cups | Add at the end of cooking |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup | For creaminess |
| Parmesan cheese | 1 cup | Freshly grated for best flavor |
| Italian seasoning | 2 tsp | Essential for flavor |
| Lemon juice | Juice of half a lemon | Brightens the dish |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making a tasty chicken orzo is easy. Just follow these steps for a dish that everyone will love.
Preparing the Chicken
First, dry the chicken thighs well. This helps them brown nicely. Cut the chicken into cubes for even cooking.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet. Add the chicken when it’s hot. Cook for 3–4 minutes until it starts to brown.
Cooking Sequence Explanation
After the chicken browns, add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Use oregano, thyme, sweet paprika, and Dijon mustard for flavor. Stir and cook for 2–3 minutes.
Then, add 1 cup of orzo and 2 cups of chicken broth. Cover the skillet and simmer for 12–15 minutes. This makes the orzo tender and juicy.
Final Touches and Serving
Stir in 1 cup of cream and 4 cups of spinach until wilted. Add ½ cup of Parmesan cheese for extra creaminess. Serve warm, topped with more Parmesan if you like.
Tips for the Best Chicken Orzo Recipe
Making a great easy chicken orzo recipe needs focus. Watch the orzo closely while it cooks. This helps avoid sticking and keeps it tasty.
Adding special ingredients can make it even better. This turns a simple dish into something amazing.
Perfecting the Orzo Cook
Check if the orzo is tender after 9 minutes. A quick taste will tell you if it’s perfect. Stir often to stop it from sticking together.
Try toasting the orzo in olive oil first. It adds a nice nutty taste.
Enhancing Flavor with Optional Add-ins
Adding fresh lemon juice before serving is a great idea. It brings a bright, zesty flavor. Adding seasonal veggies also boosts nutrition and looks.
Don’t be afraid to try new herbs and spices. Find the mix that you love the most.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Orzo | 1 cup | Cook until tender, about 8-9 minutes |
| Heavy Cream | ¾ cup | Adding at the end for creaminess |
| Fresh Spinach | 4 cups | Stir in towards the end of cooking |
| Garlic | 6 cloves, minced | Enhances overall flavor |
| Parmesan Cheese | ¾ cup, grated | Use freshly grated for best results |
Marry Me Chicken Orzo Variations
Marry Me Chicken Orzo is great for many tastes and diets. I can make it my own, like adding Mediterranean flavors or making it spicy. It’s fun to try different ways to enjoy this dish.
Mediterranean Twist
To make it Mediterranean, I add olives and feta cheese. These give a salty taste that goes well with the creamy sauce. Sun-dried tomatoes add more flavor. This version feels like a trip to the Mediterranean.
Vegetarian Adaptation
For a meat-free option, I use chickpeas or mushrooms instead of chicken. The creamy sauce makes it feel like a big hug. It’s tasty and fits my diet perfectly.
Spicy Version for Heat Lovers
For a spicy kick, I add red pepper flakes or spicy sausage. It makes the dish lively and warm. This version keeps it cozy but adds a fun twist.
| Variation Type | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Mediterranean | Olives, Feta Cheese, Sun-dried Tomatoes | Briny, Tangy |
| Vegetarian | Chickpeas, Mushrooms | Hearty, Satisfying |
| Spicy | Red Pepper Flakes, Spicy Sausage | Bold, Zesty |
Nutrition Information for Marry Me Chicken Orzo
Knowing the nutrition in Marry Me Chicken Orzo makes it even better. A serving has about 420 calories. It’s good for many diets. Each part makes it a healthy and tasty dish.
Calorie Breakdown
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 24 g |
| Fat | 19 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9 g |
| Cholesterol | 108 mg |
| Sodium | 995 mg |
| Potassium | 742 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Vitamin A | 1525 IU |
| Vitamin C | 14 mg |
| Calcium | 253 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
Health Benefits of Ingredients
This dish is full of good stuff. Chicken is great for muscles. Spinach adds vitamins and minerals. Sun-dried tomatoes bring antioxidants.
- Chicken: Excellent protein source, aids in muscle growth.
- Spinach: High in vitamins and minerals, great for eye health.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Packed with antioxidants, beneficial for heart health.
- Olive Oil: Contains healthy fats that promote heart health.
- Orzo: Offers carbohydrates for energy, essential for daily activities.
Serving Suggestions for Marry Me Chicken Orzo
I love to add special touches to my delicious chicken orzo. The right sides make the meal even better. It’s all about creating a great dining experience.
Best Side Dishes to Pair
Here are some great sides for your Marry Me Chicken Orzo:
- Fresh green salad with tangy vinaigrette
- Crusty garlic bread for a hearty touch
- Steamed asparagus or green beans for color
- Roasted vegetables for caramelized flavors
- A simple caprese salad for a refreshing bite
Wine Pairing Recommendations
A light, crisp white wine is perfect with creamy chicken orzo. Here are some top picks:
| Wine Type | Tasting Notes |
|---|---|
| Sauvignon Blanc | Zesty acidity, with citrus and green apple flavors |
| Pinot Grigio | Delicate and refreshing, often with floral notes |
| Chardonnay (unoaked) | Crisp, with notes of pear and peach |
| Prosecco | Lightly sparkling, with flavors of apple and honeysuckle |
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Looking for the best chicken orzo recipe? Try Marry Me Chicken Orzo. It’s a mix of flavors that makes any meal special. It’s quick to make, perfect for busy nights.
This recipe is easy and can be made for many people or just for you. It has creamy sauce, tender chicken, and orzo. It also has sun-dried tomatoes and spinach for extra color and health.
Marry Me Chicken Orzo is more than just food. It’s a dish that makes you feel good. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it all the time!
