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Marry Me Chicken Orzo

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Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a flavorful, creamy dish that features tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich, savory sauce with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and a splash of cream. The orzo pasta absorbs all the delicious flavors, creating a perfect one-pan meal that is bound to impress. This dish is so good, it might just convince your loved one to say “yes!”

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (drained if packed in oil)
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil or fresh basil (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  • Cook the chicken: Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and cook them in the skillet for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
  • Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Add the liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-5 minutes, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits.
  • Add the cream and orzo: Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Add the orzo pasta and stir to coat. Let the orzo cook in the sauce for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  • Finish the dish: Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the orzo. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through. Garnish with fresh basil and parsley before serving.

Notes

  • If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative.
  • You can add some spinach or kale for extra greens and flavor.
  • This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • For extra flavor, try adding a dash of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice at the end.

Keywords: Marry Me Chicken Orzo, chicken orzo, creamy chicken pasta, one-pan chicken recipe, orzo pasta dish, garlic chicken recipe, sun-dried tomato chicken, easy chicken dinner, creamy pasta, weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://inqelab.com/marry-me-chicken-orzo/