Marry Me Chicken Orzo One Pot Recipe

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Creamy, dreamy, and bursting with comforting flavor, the Marry Me Chicken Orzo One Pot Recipe is the kind of meal that makes people fall in love—yes, literally and figuratively. This dish combines tender chicken breast with velvety, cheesy orzo, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a creamy garlic-infused sauce, all cooked together in one pan. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for a date night or cozy gathering.

The magic of this dish lies in its harmonious blend of texture and taste. Juicy seared chicken soaks up a rich sauce that’s deeply savory yet slightly tangy from the tomatoes, while orzo pasta brings a comforting, risotto-like creaminess. A handful of fresh spinach adds color and a touch of health to balance the decadence. One bite, and you’ll understand why it’s called “Marry Me Chicken”—because it might just inspire a proposal.

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Ingredients for this Marry Me Chicken Orzo One Pot Recipe

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• Optional: red pepper flakes, to taste

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Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the cubed chicken breast with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and sear until golden brown on all sides, about 5–6 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

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Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add a splash more oil if needed. Toss in the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.

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Step 3: Add the Orzo and Broth

Pour the dry orzo into the pan and stir to coat it in the garlicky oil and tomato mixture. Toast lightly for a minute, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring it to a simmer, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan.

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Step 4: Simmer and Creamify

Once the broth is bubbling, reduce heat to medium-low. Add the heavy cream and stir. Let the orzo simmer uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid has reduced into a creamy consistency.

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Step 5: Return Chicken and Add Final Touches

Return the seared chicken to the pan and fold it into the creamy orzo. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh spinach. Continue to cook for 2–3 minutes, just until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the sauce. If the mixture becomes too thick, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it.

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Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Serve warm straight from the pan—this dish is best enjoyed immediately, while it’s rich and velvety.

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Estimated Nutrition

The following nutritional information is approximate, based on a serving size of 1 cup (recipe serves about 4):

• Calories: 520
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 740mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on exact brands and measurements used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is orzo, and can I substitute it?

Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta. If unavailable, you can substitute with small pasta like ditalini or even arborio rice, adjusting liquid and cook time accordingly.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs add even more richness and remain tender and juicy. Just ensure they are fully cooked through before serving.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, orzo contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, try using gluten-free orzo or a short-grain rice alternative.

Can I make this dairy-free?

You can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy flavor.

What other vegetables can I add?

Mushrooms, peas, or roasted red peppers work beautifully in this dish. Add them during the sauté step or stir them in at the end with the spinach.

How spicy is this dish?

The base recipe is mild, but you can increase the heat by adding crushed red pepper flakes or diced chili.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If making ahead, reheat gently and stir in extra cream or broth to refresh the sauce.

What sides go well with this?

A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted veggies pair wonderfully to balance the creamy richness of the dish.

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