Introduction
Welcome to a heartwarming dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends! Our Marry Me Chicken Orzo is not just another chicken recipe; it’s a delightful combination of juicy chicken breasts and tender orzo pasta, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. With bursts of flavor from cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach, this one-pan meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Get ready to fall in love with this comforting dish!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers.
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and sear for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate, letting it rest for a moment.
- In the same skillet, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for about 2-3 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their juicy sweetness.
- Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the orzo pasta, allowing it to cook for 8-10 minutes until tender, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
- Reduce the heat to low and gently stir in the heavy cream and chopped spinach, cooking just until the spinach wilts and turns vibrant green.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until it is completely melted and the sauce becomes rich and creamy.
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet and let it simmer alongside the orzo for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Before serving, garnish the dish with fresh basil to add a pop of color and freshness.
Notes or Tips
For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. This dish is also wonderful when made with fresh herbs; try replacing the dried Italian seasoning with a blend of fresh oregano and thyme. If you’d like to make it gluten-free, substitute the orzo with a gluten-free pasta option that you enjoy!
Cooking Techniques
Searing the chicken is key to developing a golden brown crust that adds flavor to the dish. Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken to ensure a nice sear. Also, allowing the heavy cream and cheese to melt on low heat keeps the sauce smooth and prevents it from curdling.
FAQ
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can pre-cook the chicken and prepare the orzo mixture. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine and reheat on the stove.
What can I serve with Marry Me Chicken Orzo? This dish is lovely on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This Marry Me Chicken Orzo is not just a meal; it’s an experience full of comforting flavors and heartwarming aromas. Perfect for a casual family dinner or a cozy date night, this dish has all the elements to make you and your loved ones feel special. So gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and get ready for a culinary embrace that’s sure to leave everyone asking for seconds!