Picture this: it’s a Tuesday evening, the kind where the day feels like a whirlwind, and all you crave is comfort on a plate.
Enter the Creamy Chicken Orzo – a dish that wraps you in a warm, culinary hug. It’s like that old sweater you dig out every winter, familiar and cozy, yet somehow it surprises you each time.
I stumbled upon this recipe during one of those endless scrolling sessions through food blogs, and it’s become a staple ever since. This isn’t just food; it’s like a lullaby for your taste buds.
Imagine the creamy sauce intertwining effortlessly with tender chicken and that perfectly cooked orzo, each bite a small escape from the chaos of daily life. And hey, if you’ve got some leftover veggies from last night’s stir fry, toss them in – they’ll fit right in, like adding a new chapter to a beloved book.
So, when the world feels a bit too much, let this dish be your evening wind-down, your culinary exhale.
Steps
- Begin by drying the chicken breasts with a paper towel, then cut them into cubes and set aside. Preheat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
- Once the oil is hot, place the chicken cubes in the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges are lightly browned. Add sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the orzo and pour in the chicken broth, mixing well to combine. Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to medium, and let it cook for 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- When the orzo is fully cooked, incorporate the coconut milk or cream and spinach, stirring until the spinach wilts.
- Finally, sprinkle the freshly grated parmesan cheese over the dish and give it a final stir. Once everything is well combined, remove from heat and serve immediately.
Ingredients
- Pan “Marry Me” Chicken Orzo recipe:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
- ¾ cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil and drained
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 cup orzo
- 2¾ cups chicken broth or water
- ¾ cup full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream
- 2 large handfuls fresh spinach
- ¾ cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Nutritional Values
Calories: 420kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 36g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 83mg | Sodium: 954mg | Potassium: 1132mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 1533IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 211mg | Iron: 4mg
FAQ
- What is the origin of “Marry Me” Chicken?
- The story behind “Marry Me” Chicken reportedly traces back to Ina Garten’s “Engagement Roast Chicken.” The idea is that the dish is so delicious, it could inspire a marriage proposal!
- What type of pasta is orzo, and why is it used in this recipe?
- Orzo is a short-cut pasta that resembles large grains of rice. It’s used in this recipe because it pairs well with the creamy sauce and provides a comforting texture without being overly filling.
- Can I substitute any ingredients to make this dish dairy-free?
- Yes, you can substitute full-fat coconut milk for heavy cream to keep the dish dairy-free while still achieving a creamy texture.
- Is it necessary to use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil?
- It is recommended to use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, as they provide the best flavor for this recipe.
- How can I prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan?
- To prevent sticking, make sure to stir the orzo frequently while it cooks, especially after adding the broth and covering the pan.
Tips
- To enhance the flavor of the dish, use fresh garlic instead of pre-minced or powdered garlic, as it provides a more robust taste.
- Opt for sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil to ensure they are flavorful and tender, adding depth to the creamy sauce.
- Stir the orzo frequently while it cooks to prevent it from sticking to the pan and ensure even cooking.
- Consider using full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option that still maintains the creaminess of the sauce, or substitute with heavy cream if preferred.
Equipment
- Large Skillet or Sauté Pan with Lid – A high-quality skillet that can withstand heat and has a lid for simmering.
- Garlic Press – For easily mashing fresh garlic cloves.
- Cheese Grater – For freshly grating parmesan cheese.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – For accurately measuring ingredients like olive oil, seasonings, and liquids.
- Wooden Spoon or Heat-Resistant Spatula – For stirring the ingredients without scratching the skillet.
