Oh boy, do I have a special treat for you today! Ever find yourself in need of a cozy, delicious meal that’s both hearty and a little bit fancy? Well, let me introduce you to my beloved One-Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo! I can’t remember when exactly I stumbled upon this recipe, but I do recall it was one of those “Wow, this tastes way too good to be made so easily!” moments. Seriously, one pan, a handful of ingredients, and you’re ready to whip up a dish that’ll make anyone feel like they just walked into a five-star restaurant! Trust me, you might even earn a marriage proposal with every creamy spoonful!
This dish holds a little bit of magic for me – it’s become my go-to for those nights when I want to impress friends or just indulge in something delightful while sipping a glass of wine. And the best part? It’s so uncomplicated that you won’t find yourself overwhelmed in the kitchen. So let’s dive in!
What’s in One-Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo?
Chicken Breast: The star of the show! Tender pieces of chicken breast bring a protein punch and soak up all the wonderful flavors mingling in the pan. I always recommend cutting them into bite-sized pieces for quicker cooking and easier eating.
Salt and Pepper: A simple seasoning duo that’s essential for making your chicken shine. Adjust the amounts based on your taste preference.
Olive Oil: This is what adds richness to the dish and helps to sauté the chicken to golden perfection. Extra virgin is my go-to, but regular olive oil works beautifully too!
Onion: Diced onions provide a lovely sweetness when cooked down. Just a few minutes in the pan can transform them into a caramelized delight.
Garlic: Ah, garlic—the aromatic powerhouse! It adds depth and flavor that will have your taste buds dancing.
Dried Oregano: This herb gives a Mediterranean flair to the dish. If you can, grab a quality brand for the best flavor.
Smoked Paprika: This spice adds a subtle smokiness that complements the chicken incredibly well. It’s a game-changer, trust me!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These little gems bring a tangy sweetness and a bit of chewiness that balances beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Orzo Pasta: A fun twist on the usual pasta – orzo is small and rice-shaped, which makes it the perfect complement to the other ingredients.
Chicken Broth: I always use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness. This liquid creates the base – essentially the heart of the dish!
Fresh Spinach: Dark leafy greens for a nutrition boost. Plus, they wilt down nicely and add a pop of color.
Heavy Cream: For that luxurious, creamy finish that binds everything together. A little indulgence here is absolutely worth it!
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Who doesn’t love cheese? This adds a deliciously nutty, cheesy flavor to the dish.
Fresh Basil: Optional, but a sprinkle of fresh basil takes this dish to the next level in both flavor and presentation!
Is One-Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo Good for You?
Oh, let’s chat about the health aspects! This dish has lots going for it. The **chicken breast** is a lean protein, perfect for muscle building and keeping you full. **Spinach** is loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, plus iron and calcium, making it a nutritional powerhouse.
But, let’s be honest – the **heavy cream** and **Parmesan cheese** do bring some richness and calories into the mix, so moderation is key if you’re watching your intake. If you’re looking to lighten things up a bit, you can substitute the heavy cream with low-fat alternatives or even a splash of coconut milk!
Ingredients List
– 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups fresh spinach
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
*Serves about 4 hungry friends or a very happy family!*
How to Make One-Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo?
1. Season the **chicken pieces** with **salt** and **pepper**.
2. In a large skillet or pan, heat the **olive oil** over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned **chicken** and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the diced **onion** and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced **garlic**, **oregano**, and **smoked paprika**, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Stir in the chopped **sun-dried tomatoes** and **orzo pasta**, mixing well to combine. Pour in the **chicken broth** and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the **orzo** cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
6. Return the cooked **chicken** to the pan, then add the fresh **spinach**. Stir until the spinach wilts and brightens up.
7. Pour in the **heavy cream** and stir in the grated **Parmesan cheese** until well combined. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through and meld all those flavors.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning with **salt** and **pepper** as needed.
9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh **basil** if desired. Take a moment to admire the beauty before diving in!
Tips and Twists for Your Kitchen Adventure
If you want to add a different twist, feel free to throw in some veggies like bell peppers or zucchini to amp up the nutrition even more! And if you’re feeling extra indulgent, a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top just before serving can elevate those flavors to sheer bliss.
This One-Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo is bound to become a family favorite, just like it is in mine! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations with your friends and family—they might just ask for the recipe themselves! So, roll up your sleeves, grab that apron, and let’s cook something delicious together!
