If you are searching for a creamy, comforting dish that will wow everyone at the dinner table, you absolutely must try the Marry Me Chicken Orzo Recipe. This dish combines tender shredded chicken with delicate orzo pasta, all enveloped in a luscious sun-dried tomato and cream sauce that bursts with flavor at every bite. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that feels indulgent but comes together with such ease, making it your new go-to comfort food classic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in the Marry Me Chicken Orzo Recipe plays a crucial role, from building the rich depth of flavor to adding texture and vibrant color. The simplicity of these ingredients makes the preparation straightforward and absolutely rewarding.
- Olive oil: Serves as the flavorful base for sautéeing and adds a subtle fruity richness.
- Butter: Adds creaminess and enhances the sauce’s smooth texture.
- Tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and gives the sauce its inviting, vibrant hue.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Bring a burst of sweet and tangy depth that elevates the dish.
- Dried oregano: Infuses herby warmth in every bite.
- Garlic: Provides an aromatic punch that awakens the senses.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Add a gentle, pleasant kick without overpowering the dish.
- Orzo pasta: The star grain that cooks up tender and perfect for soaking in the creamy sauce.
- Dry white wine: Lends acidity and complexity to balance the richness.
- Chicken broth: Deepens the savory notes and helps cook the orzo perfectly.
- Heavy cream: Creates the luscious, silky sauce that clings to every bite.
- Cooked shredded chicken: Brings protein and heartiness without extra fuss.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish that perfectly complements the tomato and cream.
- Fresh basil: Brightens the dish with its fragrant, herbal freshness.
- Salt & pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together harmoniously.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Orzo Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Orzo
Start by heating olive oil and butter in a pot over medium-high heat. Add tomato paste, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and the orzo pasta. Once the butter melts, cook the mixture while stirring frequently for 2 to 3 minutes. This step wakes up the flavors and begins to toast the orzo just enough to add nuttiness and prevent it from becoming mushy later.
Step 2: Build the Sauce
Pour in the dry white wine and let it bubble away for about one minute to cook off the alcohol while intensifying the taste. Then, stir in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil for about 10 minutes uncovered, stirring often to keep the orzo from sticking to the pot. Adjust the heat between medium and medium-low to maintain a simmer. This slow cooking allows the orzo to absorb all the delicious flavors while the sauce thickens beautifully.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Finish the Sauce
Stir in the shredded cooked chicken, freshly grated parmesan cheese, and torn fresh basil leaves. These ingredients add richness, savory depth, and a fresh herbal lift to finalize the sauce. Stir gently to combine without breaking up the chicken too much.
Step 4: Let it Rest and Season
Remove the pot from heat and cover it for 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken to your desired consistency. This resting step is key for melding the flavors perfectly. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste, and give it one last gentle stir before serving.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Orzo Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and flavor of your Marry Me Chicken Orzo Recipe, sprinkle extra fresh basil leaves or finely chopped parsley on top. A grating of parmesan just before serving adds a lovely finishing touch that will make your guests smile. For a little extra color and texture, a handful of toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds can also be delightful.
Side Dishes
This creamy, comforting dish pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides to balance the richness. Consider a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or simple roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is a perfect accompaniment to scoop up any extra sauce and complete the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress? Serve the Marry Me Chicken Orzo Recipe in individual shallow bowls topped with a basil leaf and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. For a dinner party, arrange the dish on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs and lemon zest for pops of color and brightness. You can even stuff roasted bell peppers with the orzo mixture and bake briefly for a stunning and crowd-pleasing presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from this Marry Me Chicken Orzo Recipe keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent the creamy sauce from absorbing other odors in the fridge. It’s an excellent make-ahead option for busy days.
Freezing
If you want to freeze this dish, do so before adding fresh basil to avoid wilting. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. When thawed, the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly, but reheating gently with a splash of broth or cream will help restore the luscious consistency.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers slowly over low heat on the stove, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to redistribute the sauce evenly. Add a bit of chicken broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, you can use a microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating without drying out the dish.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
Absolutely! While orzo is preferred for its petite, rice-like texture that absorbs sauce well, small pasta shapes like ditalini, acini di pepe, or even small shells can work nicely. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Is it necessary to use white wine in the recipe?
Using dry white wine adds acidity and depth that balances the creamy sauce. However, if you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute extra chicken broth and a splash of lemon juice to mimic that brightness.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or use a plant-based protein. Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth, and keep the rest of the ingredients the same for a delicious vegetarian twist.
How spicy is the dish from the red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper flakes add just a gentle hint of heat to enhance the savory flavors without overwhelming the creamy texture. You can adjust the quantity to suit your personal spice preference or leave it out if you want no heat at all.
What type of chicken is best to use?
Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and adds great flavor, but cooked shredded chicken breast or thighs work equally well. Use whatever you have on hand or prefer for the perfect balance of tenderness and juiciness.
Final Thoughts
I really encourage you to give the Marry Me Chicken Orzo Recipe a try the next time you want a meal that’s both foolproof and incredibly delicious. It hits all the right notes: creamy, savory, with just enough brightness and spice to keep every bite exciting. Plus, it’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Happy cooking!
Print
Marry Me Chicken Orzo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a creamy and flavorful one-pot Italian-inspired dish that combines tender shredded chicken with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil, all cooked with orzo pasta in a luscious tomato cream sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that tastes gourmet with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1.5 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 2 cups cooked shredded or rotisserie chicken
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 small handful fresh basil, torn or chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Ingredients: Heat the olive oil and butter in a pot over medium-high heat. Add the tomato paste, sun-dried tomatoes, dried oregano, minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and uncooked orzo pasta. Stir frequently as the butter melts and cook for 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors and lightly toast the orzo.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the dry white wine and let it bubble for about one minute to cook off the alcohol. Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium or medium-low to maintain a simmer. Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring often to prevent the orzo from sticking, until the pasta is tender and the sauce begins to thicken.
- Incorporate Chicken and Cheese: Stir in the shredded chicken, freshly grated parmesan cheese, and fresh basil until well combined. This will meld the flavors and add richness to the creamy sauce.
- Rest and Season: Remove the pot from heat and cover it. Allow the dish to rest for 3-5 minutes so the sauce thickens to your preferred consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Notes
- For best flavor, use a good quality dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
- If sun-dried tomatoes are packed in oil, drain them well before adding.
- Rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut, but leftover cooked chicken works just as well.
- If you prefer a lighter dish, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Garnish with additional fresh basil or parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Be careful not to overcook the orzo to avoid it becoming mushy.
