Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a delightful dish that promises to impress at any gathering. This creamy pasta dish features tender chicken and a rich sun-dried tomato sauce, creating a flavor profile that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe stands out with its simplicity and deliciousness, ensuring it will become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a gourmet meal that tastes like it came from a restaurant.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and creamy sauce elevates the dish, delivering a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main course or alongside your favorite side dishes for an elegant meal.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both adults and kids, making it the perfect choice for all ages.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pot, allowing you to enjoy more time with loved ones.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need for this Marry Me Chicken Orzo recipe.

Essential Kitchen Tools

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

Why These Tools Matter

• Large skillet or pot: Provides ample space for cooking chicken and combining ingredients without overcrowding.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures accuracy in seasoning, which is key to achieving the best flavor.
• Sharp knife: Makes chopping ingredients quick and effortless, saving you time in preparation.

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

For the Sauce

• 1 tsp sun-dried tomato powder
• 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 the Orzo

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

For Creaminess

• 3/4 cup heavy cream

For Garnishing

• 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, and black pepper. Ensure all sides are well coated.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add sun-dried tomato oil and butter. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken thighs. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add dried shallots, minced onion, and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant. Then stir in diced sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, sweet smoked paprika, salt, and basil. Mix well.

Step 4: Add Broth and Orzo

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the orzo to the pot and stir well. Cook according to package directions until al dente.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once the orzo is cooked through, reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, diced spinach, shredded parmesan cheese, and return the seared chicken to the skillet. Allow everything to heat together for about 5 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving warm. Enjoy your delicious Marry Me Chicken Orzo!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Serving Marry Me Chicken Orzo is an opportunity to impress your family and friends with a delightful presentation. This creamy dish can be complemented with various sides and garnishes to enhance its flavors.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil on top for a burst of flavor and vibrant color.
• Parmesan: Shave some extra parmesan cheese over the dish just before serving for added richness.

Pair with a Simple Salad

• Mixed Greens: A light mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the creaminess of the orzo.
• Caesar Salad: This classic salad adds crunch and complements the savory chicken perfectly.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Focaccia: Soft focaccia is another fantastic option, offering a flavorful bite alongside the dish.

Incorporate Seasonal Vegetables

• Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus adds an elegant touch and a hint of smokiness.
• Sautéed Zucchini: Lightly sautéed zucchini provides freshness and pairs well with the orzo.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Orzo

To ensure your Marry Me Chicken Orzo turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold seasoning: Don’t shy away from seasoning your chicken well. It enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Creamy texture: Stir in the heavy cream at low heat to achieve that velvety texture without curdling.
• Cook orzo al dente: Follow package instructions carefully, so your orzo maintains a pleasant bite and doesn’t become mushy.
• Use quality broth: Opt for homemade or high-quality chicken broth for richer flavor in your sauce.
• Adjust spices to taste: Feel free to modify spices based on your preference; adding more garlic can boost the dish’s aroma.
• Let it sit before serving: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes helps meld all the flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Marry Me Chicken Orzo pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its creamy texture and rich flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting addition.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrition while being easy to prepare.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the hearty orzo.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts bring a nutty flavor that enhances the main dish.
5. Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs offers a nutritious alternative that complements well.
6. Zucchini Noodles: Light zucchini noodles provide a fun twist while keeping it healthier without sacrificing taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, especially when trying out a new recipe like Marry Me Chicken Orzo. Here are some common mistakes to watch for.

• Bold seasoning choices: Using too little seasoning can make your dish bland. Ensure you measure spices correctly and taste as you go.
• Bold overcooking the orzo: Overcooked orzo turns mushy. Cook it until al dente for the best texture in your dish.
• Bold not using enough broth: Insufficient liquid can lead to dry chicken and overly thick sauce. Follow the recipe closely for the right amount of chicken broth.
• Bold ignoring ingredient quality: Low-quality ingredients can affect flavor. Use fresh herbs and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes for a richer taste.
• Bold skipping garnishes: Garnishes add flavor and visual appeal. Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh basil on top before serving.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Marry Me Chicken Orzo

• Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Marry Me Chicken Orzo

• Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed.

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 served with orzo pasta. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for dinner.

Can I use different proteins in Marry Me Chicken Orzo?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with turkey, lamb, or beef depending on your preference. Each protein will bring its unique flavor to the dish.

How can I customize Marry Me Chicken Orzo?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. Adjusting herbs and spices can also tailor it to your taste.

Is Marry Me Chicken Orzo suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It stores well and makes excellent leftovers. Just follow storage guidelines for a delicious meal ready any time!

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Orzo is not just a meal; it’s an experience bursting with flavors that everyone will love. Its creamy texture and savory taste make it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your preferences!

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