Name: Marry Me Chicken Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika (divided); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1 cup uncooked orzo; 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 3/4 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1-2 teaspoons lemon juice

Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 1/2 teaspoons paprika (divided)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon butter

3 cloves garlic (minced)

1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1 cup uncooked orzo

2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

3/4 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

2 cups fresh spinach

1-2 teaspoons lemon juice

Instructions

Step 1: Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes, until lightly golden on the outside but not fully cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate.

Step 2: Reduce the heat to medium and melt butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and the remaining ½ teaspoon of paprika. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant.

Step 3: Stir in the uncooked orzo and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook uncovered for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 4: Lower the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add fresh spinach and stir for 1-2 minutes until wilted and fully incorporated into the sauce.

Step 5: Return the chicken to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through. Stir in 1-2 teaspoons of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Serve warm with extra Parmesan on top if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.

Add mushrooms or bell peppers along with the sun-dried tomatoes for extra veggies.

Use fresh herbs like basil or thyme instead of dried oregano for a brighter taste.

If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.

Swap chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful protein option.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or couscous work well as substitutes, but cooking times may vary slightly.

Is it necessary to use heavy cream?

Heavy cream gives the dish its rich, creamy texture, but you can replace it with half-and-half or a coconut milk alternative for a lighter or dairy-free version, adjusting seasoning to taste.