One-Pan Marry Me Chicken with Orzo Recipe

Name: One-Pan Marry Me Chicken with Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp butter; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (packed in oil); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 1/2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional); Fresh lemon wedges (for serving, optional)

By funsmagcom@gmail.com

January 13, 2025

0

341

- Advertisement -

One-Pan Marry Me Chicken with Orzo Recipe

One-Pan Marry Me Chicken with Orzo is a hearty, comforting, and flavorful dish that combines juicy, pan-seared chicken with a creamy, savory sauce made with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and heavy cream. Paired with tender orzo pasta, all cooked in one pan, this dish is as satisfying as it is easy to prepare. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or meal prep, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.

- Advertisement -

Instructions:

Step 1: Season the Chicken

To start, the chicken breasts need to be seasoned properly to infuse them with flavor and ensure they cook well in the pan. Here’s how to do it:

- Advertisement -

Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure the seasonings stick and the chicken sears nicely.
Season: Sprinkle both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Gently rub the spices into the chicken for even coverage.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

This recipe is designed to be made in one pan, so you’ll be searing the chicken in the same pan that you’ll cook the rest of the dish. Here’s how to get the perfect sear:

Heat the Pan: In a large, deep skillet or sauté pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Sear the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot pan, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches. Sear the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
Remove the Chicken: Once the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice golden crust, remove it from the pan and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

Now that the chicken is cooked, it’s time to create the creamy and flavorful sauce that will bring everything together.

- Advertisement -

Sauté Garlic: In the same pan, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Deglaze with Chicken Broth: Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan from the chicken. This will add extra flavor to the sauce.
Add Cream and Parmesan: Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce starts to thicken slightly. Then, add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and incorporated into the sauce.
Season the Sauce: Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed. The sun-dried tomatoes can add a bit of saltiness, so be cautious with the salt.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo

While the sauce is simmering, it’s time to cook the orzo. Orzo is a small pasta shape that cooks quickly and is perfect for this one-pan meal.

Cook the Orzo: In a separate pot, bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Add the 1 cup of orzo and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
Drain and Set Aside: Once the orzo is cooked, drain it and set it aside.

Step 5: Combine the Chicken, Orzo, and Sauce

Now comes the fun part—bringing everything together into a delicious, one-pan dish.

Return Chicken to the Pan: Place the seared chicken breasts back into the pan with the sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the chicken to soak up some of the sauce flavors.
Add Orzo: Once the chicken is heated through and the sauce is bubbling, add the cooked orzo to the pan. Stir to combine the pasta with the sauce and chicken, ensuring the orzo is coated in the creamy sauce.
Simmer Together: Let everything simmer together for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the orzo to absorb some of the sauce and become even more flavorful.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the dish is fully cooked and everything is well combined, it’s time to garnish and serve.

Garnish: Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped basil and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Serve: Serve the One-Pan Marry Me Chicken with Orzo immediately. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and flavorful orzo come together perfectly for a hearty, comforting meal.

Serving Suggestions:

Side Salad: A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the rich, creamy chicken and orzo. The acidity of the dressing will balance out the richness of the dish.
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread or breadsticks to soak up any extra sauce.
Steamed Vegetables: Add a side of steamed or roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, or green beans, for extra color and nutrition.

Recipe Variations:

1. Make It Spicy:

If you like a little heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a finely chopped jalapeño to the sauce. You could also use spicy sun-dried tomatoes for an extra kick.

2. Add Vegetables:

Incorporate more veggies into this dish to make it more balanced. Try adding spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the sauce for added flavor and nutrients. You can sauté the veggies along with the garlic at the beginning or add them to the sauce to cook.

3. Swap the Chicken:

For a different protein, use boneless skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result. Alternatively, try using shrimp or salmon. Shrimp cooks quickly and would be added to the sauce in the last few minutes, while salmon can be pan-seared before being added to the sauce.

4. Dairy-Free Version:

To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream. Replace the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

5. Gluten-Free Version:

If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free orzo or substitute with another small gluten-free pasta, like rice pasta. Be sure the chicken broth is also gluten-free.

Tips for Success:

Searing the Chicken: Ensure the pan is hot enough before adding the chicken. If the pan isn’t hot, the chicken will release moisture and will steam instead of sear, which can result in a less flavorful crust.
Use Full-Fat Cream: For the creamiest, most luxurious sauce, use full-fat heavy cream. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or milk, but the sauce won’t be as thick and rich.
Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Orzo cooks quickly and can become mushy if overcooked. Be sure to cook it al dente for the best texture in the final dish.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil really elevates the flavor of this dish. Don’t skip it—it adds a fresh, aromatic finish that balances the richness of the sauce.

Meal Prep Tips:

1. Prep Ahead for Busy Days

If you’re preparing for a busy week or need to save time on the day you’re planning to make this dish, you can prep a few components ahead of time. Here are some meal prep strategies to help streamline the process:

Chicken: Season and even sear the chicken in advance. Once it’s seared and cooked through, you can let it cool and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days before adding it to the pan. If you’re short on time, consider freezing the seared chicken for longer storage.
Orzo: You can cook the orzo a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just make sure to coat it lightly with a bit of olive oil to prevent it from sticking together.
Sauce: The creamy sauce can be made in advance as well. Prepare the sauce up to the point where it’s simmering with the chicken broth, heavy cream, and sun-dried tomatoes, then store it in an airtight container. When ready to cook, simply reheat the sauce on the stovetop and add the chicken and orzo.

Suggestions for Serving and Pairing:

While One-Pan Marry Me Chicken with Orzo is a full meal on its own, adding a few sides or drinks can elevate the dining experience. Here are some suggestions:

1. Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: A classic companion to creamy pasta dishes. Garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the sauce and adds an extra layer of flavor.
Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a lemony vinaigrette or balsamic dressing balances out the richness of the chicken and orzo. Try arugula, spinach, or mixed greens, and add cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onions for extra freshness.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or green beans make for healthy, flavorful sides. The caramelized edges of roasted vegetables complement the creamy sauce in the main dish.
Grilled Vegetables: You can also opt for grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant to bring a smoky flavor to contrast with the creamy richness of the chicken and orzo.

2. Appetizers:

If you want to serve a complete meal with appetizers, consider light and fresh options like bruschetta, caprese skewers, or stuffed mushrooms. These dishes complement the flavors in the main course without overshadowing it.

Additional Variations and Substitutions:

While the One-Pan Marry Me Chicken with Orzo is perfect as is, there are plenty of opportunities for customization. Whether you’re catering to dietary preferences, ingredient availability, or simply want to try something new, here are some variations:

1. Chicken Substitutes:

Chicken Thighs: Instead of chicken breasts, try using bone-in, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful alternative. You can follow the same instructions, though they may take a little longer to cook.
Turkey: For a leaner alternative, boneless, skinless turkey breasts or turkey cutlets can be used instead of chicken.
Vegetarian: For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for portobello mushrooms or tofu. Portobello mushrooms have a meaty texture, and tofu will absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully. If using tofu, press it first to remove excess moisture and then sear it in the pan to get a crispy exterior before adding it to the sauce.

2. Dairy-Free Modifications:

Cream: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free option. These options will create a creamy sauce while keeping the dish dairy-free.
Cheese: Use nutritional yeast as a substitute for Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free, vegan-friendly alternative. It adds a cheesy, nutty flavor that mimics the richness of Parmesan.

3. Pasta Alternatives:

While orzo is the pasta of choice in this recipe, there are many other options depending on your preferences or dietary needs:

Gluten-Free Pasta: Use gluten-free orzo or any small gluten-free pasta like rice pasta or corn pasta. Be sure to follow the cooking instructions for the specific pasta you use.
Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): For a low-carb or gluten-free alternative, you can replace the orzo with zucchini noodles. You can spiralize fresh zucchini and cook them briefly in the sauce or sauté them separately. Keep in mind that zucchini noodles release moisture, so be mindful of the sauce consistency.

4. Adding Extra Veggies:

Spinach: Add a handful of fresh spinach or kale to the sauce for extra nutrients. Stir it in toward the end, allowing it to wilt down and mix into the sauce.
Mushrooms: Adding sliced mushrooms to the pan along with the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes gives the sauce an earthy depth of flavor.
Peas or Asparagus: Add peas or asparagus to the orzo for added color and texture. Sauté the asparagus along with the garlic or toss the peas into the sauce near the end of cooking.

Tips for Perfecting the Dish:

1. Chicken Searing Technique:

To get a beautifully golden and crispy sear on the chicken, ensure the following:

Preheat your pan: Make sure your pan is hot enough before adding the chicken. This helps create a nice crust.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: If your pan is too small, cook the chicken in batches. Overcrowding the pan can trap steam, preventing a proper sear.
Let the chicken rest: After searing, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before adding it back into the sauce. This helps redistribute the juices within the chicken, ensuring it stays moist.

2. Sauce Consistency:

If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out by adding a bit more chicken broth or a splash of milk. If the sauce is too thin, allow it to simmer longer to thicken. Always taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning before combining it with the chicken and pasta.

3. Cooking Orzo:

Since orzo is small and delicate, it can overcook quickly. Be sure to check the pasta early, draining it as soon as it’s al dente. If you’re cooking the orzo in advance, undercook it slightly to ensure it doesn’t turn mushy when combined with the sauce.

4. Fresh vs. Dried Herbs:

Fresh herbs provide vibrant, aromatic flavor that really brings out the essence of the dish. If you’re using dried herbs, remember that they are more concentrated than fresh herbs, so you may need to reduce the quantity. A good rule of thumb is to use 1/3 the amount of dried herbs as you would fresh.

Conclusion:

The One-Pan Marry Me Chicken with Orzo is a perfect combination of savory, creamy, and comforting elements that come together in one pan, making it an easy yet luxurious meal. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, preparing for a special occasion, or meal prepping for the week, this dish offers versatility, flavor, and ease.

By following the simple steps outlined here and experimenting with variations, you can create a dish that’s perfect for any taste preference or dietary need. From adding vegetables to changing up the protein or even adjusting the sauce, this recipe is incredibly adaptable.

With helpful tips for preparation, meal storage, and serving, One-Pan Marry Me Chicken with Orzo is sure to be a go-to dish in your kitchen, making every bite an enjoyable experience. Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious creation!

The One-Pan Marry Me Chicken with Orzo is a deliciously satisfying meal that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked orzo in a single pan. It’s easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, date nights, or family gatherings. The addition of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan cheese creates a flavorful and comforting dish that everyone will love. Whether you enjoy a spicy kick or want to add more veggies, this recipe is versatile and can be tailored to your taste preferences. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

Enjoy this dish with your loved ones, and don’t be surprised if they ask you to make it again and again!

Yield: 4