Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce and perfectly cooked orzo. This meal is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in. The rich flavors and comforting textures make it a standout choice for family dinners or romantic evenings. With its ease of preparation and impressive presentation, this dish is sure to win hearts at the dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious meal ready to serve in no time.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and creamy sauce creates a flavor explosion that will leave everyone wanting more.
• Versatile Ingredients: This recipe allows for substitutions based on your preferences or dietary needs, making it adaptable for different tastes.
• Hearty & Satisfying: Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the spinach, this dish is both filling and nutritious.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the dish make it visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests or loved ones.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential kitchen tools. These will help streamline your cooking experience and ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Why These Tools Matter

• Large skillet: Provides ample space for cooking the chicken evenly and allows for easy mixing of ingredients.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures accuracy in measurements for spices and liquids, which is key to balancing flavors.
• Sharp knife: Makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, saving time during prep.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients without damaging your cookware.

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
• 1 tsp sun-dried tomato powder

For the Sauce

• 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 Cooking Orzo

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

Final Touches

• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup spinach (diced)
• 3/4 cup parmesan cheese (shredded)
• Chopped fresh basil (for garnish)

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with sweet smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and sun-dried tomato powder.
1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add turkey turkey turkey bacon until crispy. Remove from pan and set aside.
2. In the same pan, add seasoned chicken thighs. Cook until golden brown on both sides (about 5-7 minutes each side).

Step 2: Create the Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked through and removed from the skillet:
1. Add sun-dried tomato oil and butter to the skillet.
2. Stir in dried shallots, minced onion, and minced garlic sautéing until fragrant (about 2-3 minutes).
3. Mix in diced sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, sweet smoked paprika, salt, and basil.

Step 3: Combine Orzo with Broth

Next:
1. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
2. Add orzo pasta to the skillet; cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually around 8-10 minutes).

Step 4: Finish with Cream & Spinach

Once orzo is cooked:
1. Reduce heat; stir in heavy cream until combined.
2. Fold in diced spinach until wilted.
3. Return chicken to the skillet; sprinkle shredded parmesan cheese over everything.

Step 5: Serve & Garnish

Finally:
1. Serve hot garnished with chopped fresh basil on top.
2. Enjoy this hearty meal with family or friends!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Family Style

• Serve the Marry Me Chicken Orzo directly from the pot for a warm, inviting meal. This approach encourages sharing and adds a cozy touch to family dinners.

Individual Plates

• Plate the orzo with chicken on each dish, garnishing with fresh basil. This makes for an elegant presentation, perfect for entertaining guests.

With Fresh Salad

• Pair the dish with a crisp side salad. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the orzo.

With Garlic Bread

• Serve alongside warm garlic bread. The crunchy texture of the bread offers a delightful contrast to the creamy orzo.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• Add an additional sprinkle of parmesan cheese just before serving. This enhances the flavor profile and provides a beautiful finish.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Orzo

To ensure your Marry Me Chicken Orzo turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and vegetables significantly enhance flavor compared to dried or frozen options.
• Cook orzo al dente: Follow package instructions closely for cooking time; this ensures your orzo maintains its texture in the dish.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your sauce before adding all spices; this allows you to customize it according to your preference.
• Incorporate seasonal vegetables: Adding seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers can boost both nutrition and flavor.
• Let it rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
• Garnish generously: Fresh basil not only adds visual appeal but also brightens up the overall taste of your dish.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Orzo

To complement your Marry Me Chicken Orzo, consider these delicious side dishes. Each one enhances the meal while bringing variety to your table.

1. Garlic Roasted Asparagus
   Lightly seasoned asparagus roasted until tender provides a fresh crunch that pairs well with creamy dishes.
2. Caprese Salad
   A mix of ripe tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze creates a refreshing contrast to the richness of orzo.
3. Steamed Broccoli
   Simple steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing out the meal’s flavors without overpowering them.
4. Crispy Brussels Sprouts
   Roasted Brussels sprouts with a hint of lemon deliver a crispy texture that complements the creamy chicken orzo beautifully.
5. Zucchini Noodles
   Spiralized zucchini tossed lightly in olive oil offers a low-carb alternative that still feels hearty next to chicken orzo.
6. Mixed Green Salad
   A light salad featuring arugula and spinach dressed in olive oil adds freshness and cuts through the richness of the main dish.
7. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized provide natural sweetness that balances well with savory flavors in your orzo.
8. Herbed Quinoa
   Fluffy quinoa seasoned with herbs makes for a nutritious side that complements any main course beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Marry Me Chicken Orzo, avoiding common pitfalls can lead to a more flavorful and successful dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring ingredient measurements: Accurate measurement ensures the right balance of flavors. Always use measuring spoons and cups for precision.
• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (75°C).
• Skipping the seasoning: Seasoning enhances the dish’s overall flavor. Don’t skip salt and spices; they are crucial for a delicious outcome.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold cream or broth can affect cooking times. Allow ingredients to reach room temperature before using them to help achieve even cooking.
• Not stirring often: Stirring helps prevent the orzo from sticking together and ensures even cooking. Stir frequently while cooking to maintain a creamy consistency.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it.

Freezing Marry Me Chicken Orzo

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Portion it out if you want smaller servings.

Reheating Marry Me Chicken Orzo

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of chicken broth in a pan over medium heat, stirring until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Marry Me Chicken Orzo?

Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a delightful dish featuring tender chicken cooked in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce combined with orzo pasta, creating a rich and satisfying meal.

Can I customize Marry Me Chicken Orzo?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or swap out the protein for turkey or lamb based on your preferences.

How do I make Marry Me Chicken Orzo vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What should I serve with Marry Me Chicken Orzo?

This dish pairs well with garlic bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Orzo is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your tastes. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients!

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