Ah, One-Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo – just the name makes me smile! This recipe holds a special place in my heart because not only is it delicious, but it’s also perfect for those moments when you want to impress someone special without spending all day in the kitchen. The first time I made this dish, I had a dinner date, and let me tell you, it smelled so good, I almost didn’t want to serve it; I wanted to keep it all to myself!
This dish combines tender chicken, creamy orzo, and sun-dried tomatoes in a way that’s simply magical. It’s the kind of meal that can set the stage for romance, complete with candlelight and maybe some soft music in the background. Plus, the fact that it all comes together in one pan makes cleanup a breeze – the very best kind of dinner, right? Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so fabulous!
What’s in One-Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo?
Chicken Breasts: The star of the dish! I like to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Olive Oil: Just a tablespoon to help sauté the chicken and infuse flavor. Make sure to use a good quality extra virgin olive oil – it makes a difference!
Garlic: Four cloves of minced garlic adds a savory aroma and depth of flavor. Honestly, can you ever have too much garlic? I think not!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These little nuggets of flavor are packed with a tangy sweetness. I always choose ones packed in oil, as they add a luscious richness to the dish.
Italian Seasoning: A must for that classic Italian flavor profile. Feel free to add your favorite herbs here, too.
Red Pepper Flakes: This is optional, but if you like a kick, don’t skip it! A little heat complements the creaminess beautifully.
Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta is a fantastic base, soaking up all the delicious broth and cream. It’s like little bites of heaven in every forkful!
Chicken Broth: Homemade is always best, but low-sodium canned broth works great if you’re short on time.
Heavy Cream: The key to making this dish ultra-creamy and comforting. If you’re trying to be healthier, you can use half-and-half, but I say go for the full creamy goodness!
Fresh Spinach: Adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish. I love the way it wilts down, making it look vibrant and inviting.
Salt and Pepper: Always essential for seasoning – don’t forget to taste as you go!
Fresh Basil Leaves: For garnish, these add a lovely aroma and a touch of elegance.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Because, let’s be honest, everything is better with cheese!
Is One-Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo Good for You?
Oh, you bet it is, my friend! This dish has quite a few nutritious ingredients:
Chicken Breast: A lean protein source to keep you feeling full and satisfied. Plus, it’s low in fat!
Spinach: Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and antioxidants, this leafy green is a powerhouse of nutrition.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These beauties are rich in lycopene, which is great for heart health.
However, if you’re watching your calorie intake, keep in mind that the heavy cream and cheese can add up quickly. I’d suggest enjoying this dish in moderation, especially if you’re planning to impress a special someone!
The Ingredients You’ll Need
– 1 lb chicken breasts, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (jarred in oil, drained and chopped)
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
This recipe serves about 4 people, perfect for a cozy dinner or a little gathering!
How to Make One-Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo?
1. In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another 2 minutes to really let those flavors mingle.
4. Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and pour in the chicken broth. Stir to combine, then bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Cover the pan and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the broth, stirring occasionally.
6. Once the orzo is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and chopped spinach. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the spinach has wilted and the dish is creamy.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese. Get ready for some serious compliments!
Delicious Tips and Tricks
If you’re looking to switch things up, you could add some grilled vegetables or even some sautéed mushrooms for a twist! Leftovers? They reheat beautifully, making for a cozy lunch the next day. And if you want to take this dish to the next level, try pairing it with a crisp white wine or sparkling water with a splash of lemon for a refreshing complement.
Now that you have the scoop on this delicious One-Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo, I can’t wait for you to try it out! Remember, cooking is all about fun and creativity; feel free to make it your own. If you do give it a shot, I would love to hear how it turns out! Enjoy and happy cooking!
