One Pan Marry Me Chicken With Orzo Recipe

If you’re looking to impress someone special without spending hours in the kitchen, the One Pan Marry Me Chicken with Orzo might just be the answer. This dish combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy orzo, all cooked in a single pan. With just 10 minutes of prep time, it’s perfect for busy evenings. Let’s explore the easy steps to create this delicious meal that could have unexpected romantic implications.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the best things about this One Pan Marry Me Chicken recipe is its simplicity and flavor.

You’ll love how easy it’s to prepare, needing just 10 minutes of prep time. The key ingredients include orzo, rotisserie chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and parmesan, all working together to create a hearty meal. Tender chicken breasts are essential for this recipe, ensuring a delicious and satisfying dish.

Everything cooks in one pan, so you won’t spend much time cleaning up afterward. You can even customize it by swapping orzo for chickpea rice for added protein.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, serving up to six people with minimal fuss. Plus, it’s family-friendly, appealing to both adults and kids, making it a versatile choice for any dinner table.

History

As you immerse yourself in the history of Marry Me Chicken, you’ll discover that its name hints at an enthralling backstory. This dish originated from a cooking method involving chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and a creamy sauce, believed to be so delicious it could inspire a marriage proposal.

The concept likely started with Ina Garten’s “Engagement Roast Chicken,” which has been adapted countless times. The recipe evolved to include orzo, transforming it into a one-pan meal that’s both hearty and flavorful. Simple ingredients make for easy preparation, contributing to its popularity among busy families.

Its simplicity and rich taste have made it a favorite for busy weeknight dinners. Food bloggers continue to create unique variations, ensuring that Marry Me Chicken remains a beloved staple in many households.

Recipe

Ingredients:
– Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– Orzo pasta
– Sun-dried tomatoes, in oil, chopped and drained
– Heavy cream or half-and-half
– Grated parmesan cheese
– Olive oil
– Garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper
– Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

Begin by seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes on each side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, lower the heat and add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and slightly golden.
Next, add the orzo to the skillet, stirring to combine with the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Pour in chicken stock and heavy cream, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Add orzo towards the end of cooking to prevent mushiness.
Once the orzo is cooked, return the chicken to the skillet. Add the grated parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit more chicken stock or cream to reach your desired consistency.
Remove the skillet from heat and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the sauce to thicken. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Extra Tips:
To enhance the flavor of your One Pan Marry Me Chicken, consider adding a splash of white wine when sautéing the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. This will add a nice depth to the sauce.

Additionally, if you prefer a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added along with the garlic. Remember to taste and adjust seasoning as needed, and serve the dish immediately for the creamiest texture. Enjoy!

Final Thoughts

When you’re looking for a hassle-free and delicious meal, this One Pan Marry Me Chicken recipe truly delivers.

It’s perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal effort and cleanup. With a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and greens, it’s both nutritious and family-friendly. Additionally, the dish features orzo as a hearty pasta that enhances its comforting nature.

You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste by using various ingredients or trying different cooking methods, like a slow cooker. If you want a twist, consider adding lemon juice or feta cheese.

This dish serves 4-6 people and can even be prepped ahead as a freezer meal.

In just about 40-55 minutes, you’ll have a delightful meal that everyone will love, showcasing the simplicity and versatility of one-pan cooking.

FAQ

Got questions about the One Pan Marry Me Chicken recipe? You can absolutely use fresh cherry tomatoes instead of sun-dried ones; they’ll offer a milder flavor.

If you prefer milk over cream, go ahead, but the sauce won’t be as rich—adding butter or extra cheese can help.

To keep your orzo from getting mushy, stir it frequently and take it off heat once it’s cooked al dente.

Freezing this dish isn’t ideal since the creamy sauce may separate. When reheating leftovers, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

For ingredient swaps, use chickpea rice like Banza instead of orzo, or broccoli florets instead of spinach for variety.

Happy cooking!