The one recipe of mine you NEED to make, ONE PAN MARRY ME CHICKEN ORZO. It’s life changing! This delicious dish combines tender chicken, creamy orzo, and vibrant spinach, all cooked in one pan for easy preparation and cleanup. Here’s how to make it.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4-5 cloves garlic, mashed
- 3/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 cup orzo
- 2 3/4 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 3/4 cup full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream
- 2 large handfuls fresh spinach
- 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Method
Preparing the Chicken
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet or pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the pan. Season with kosher salt, ground black pepper, and paprika. Cook the chicken until it’s browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
Adding the Flavor
- Add Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the mashed garlic and drained sun-dried tomatoes to the pan. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
- Season with Italian Seasoning: Sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the chicken mixture and stir to combine. This will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
Cooking the Orzo
- Add Orzo and Chicken Broth: Stir in the orzo, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Pour in the chicken broth (or water), ensuring the orzo is fully submerged.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pan and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Adding Creaminess and Greens
- Incorporate Coconut Milk or Cream: Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream. This will give the dish a rich, creamy texture.
- Add Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the pan. Stir until the spinach is wilted and well incorporated into the dish.
Finishing Touches
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This will add a delicious, cheesy flavor to the dish.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning to suit your preference.
Serving
- Serve: Spoon the chicken and orzo mixture into bowls or plates. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.
- Enjoy: Enjoy this comforting, flavorful dish with your loved ones. It pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread.
Tips and Variations
- Protein Variations: You can substitute the chicken breast with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a more tender and juicy option.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Herb Variations: Fresh basil or parsley can be added at the end for a fresh burst of flavor.
Nutritional Information
This dish provides a good balance of protein from the chicken, carbohydrates from the orzo, and healthy fats from the coconut milk or heavy cream. Adjust portion sizes to fit your dietary needs and preferences.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if the dish has thickened too much during storage.
One Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a simple yet incredibly delicious dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Chicken Orzo
- Heat and Sauté: Properly brown the chicken to lock in flavor.
- Simmer and Stir: Cook the orzo gently and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Incorporate and Serve: Add the cream and spinach last for a creamy, vibrant finish.
Share the Delight
If you’ve enjoyed making and eating this One Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo, share the recipe with your friends and family. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Final Thoughts
This recipe transforms basic ingredients into a gourmet meal with minimal effort. Enjoy the rich flavors and satisfying texture of this dish, a delightful addition to any dinner table. Happy cooking and see you in the next recipe!
This method brings together simple ingredients to create a rich and satisfying meal. Enjoy the blend of tender chicken, creamy orzo, and vibrant spinach in every bite. Happy cooking!
