# Marry Me Chicken Orzo: A Cozy, Creamy One-Pan Meal
Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a scrumptious dish that blends creamy elements with delicious Mediterranean tastes, making it an ideal option for a cozy dinner. This one-pan recipe showcases tender orzo pasta cooked in a luscious cream sauce, enriched with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Each mouthful is full of flavor, justifying its title for the classic “Marry Me” taste that is bound to impress.
## Flavor Profile
The dish boasts a rich and creamy consistency, enhanced by the savory hints from sun-dried tomatoes and a touch of Parmesan cheese. This mix of ingredients results in a satisfying and delicious comforting meal.
## Time-Saving Tips
To simplify this recipe even further, consider utilizing pre-cooked chicken breasts or rotisserie chicken. This enables a swift preparation, as the orzo cooks in the same pot without needing to drain it.
## Serving Suggestions
For a refined dining experience, present the creamy chicken orzo with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked pepper. When serving a larger group, complement it with homemade garlic bread and a Caesar salad to extend the meal.
## Meal Prep
Leftovers can be divided into single-serve containers for easy grab-and-go lunches. Adding fresh baby spinach on top of each serving will cause it to wilt while reheating, boosting the dish’s flavor and nutrients.
## Creamy Skillet Ingredients
1. **Sun-Dried Tomatoes**: Choose jarred tomatoes preserved in olive oil for optimal flavor and texture. The oil can also be utilized for sautéing in other recipes.
2. **Orzo**: This petite pasta cooks quickly and can be prepared right in the sauce, avoiding the need for a separate pot.
3. **Heavy Whipping Cream**: For a decadent sauce, opt for heavy cream. For a lighter alternative, half and half works too, though it may need a longer simmer to thicken.
4. **Cooked Chopped Chicken**: Use rotisserie chicken, leftover roasted chicken, or cooked diced chicken breasts for convenience.
5. **Grated Parmesan Cheese**: Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully and enriches the sauce’s flavor. Provide extra at the table for garnishing.
## Favorite Variations and Swaps
– Swap out the cooked chicken for leftover turkey, Italian sausage, or chicken thighs.
– Exchange spinach for chopped kale or thawed frozen spinach. Fresh basil can also be added for extra flavor.
– For a touch of sweetness, think about mixing in chopped roasted red peppers or frozen petite peas.
– Modulate the heat by excluding red pepper flakes or allowing guests to add their own.
– Boost Mediterranean flavors with a dash of Italian seasoning or oregano.
## How to Make Marry Me Chicken Orzo
1. Warm 1 tablespoon of the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes in a large skillet over medium heat. Incorporate garlic and basil, sautéing until fragrant.
2. Add chicken broth, orzo, cream, and sun-dried tomatoes. Bring to a boil.
3. Lower heat to a low boil, cooking uncovered for 12 to 14 minutes, stirring frequently until the orzo is tender and the sauce thickens. Add more broth if needed.
4. Mix in chicken, spinach, and Parmesan. Simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes until heated through.
5. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Allow resting for 2 minutes before serving. Serve with additional Parmesan if desired.
## Storage and Leftovers
Let leftover Marry Me Chicken Orzo cool before placing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently simmer on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth, milk, or cream, stirring frequently. The dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; defrost overnight in the refrigerator and reheat with added liquid.
## Conclusion
Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a creamy, comforting creation that suits any occasion. With its rich flavors and straightforward preparation, it’s a meal that will undoubtedly win hearts at the dinner table. Enjoy this delightful recipe and share it with loved ones!