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); 2 cups fresh spinach; 1-2 teaspoons lemon juice; 1 cup uncooked orzo; 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 3/4 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

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 pieces 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 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, 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 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 is absorbed.

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

Step 5: Return the chicken to the pan and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Stir in lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese on top if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken briefly in lemon juice and herbs before cooking.

Swap orzo with other small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or couscous for a different texture.

Use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes for a lighter, fresher taste.

Add a splash of white wine when cooking the garlic and tomatoes for added depth.

For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and omit Parmesan.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed chicken to ensure even cooking. If using frozen, thaw completely before cooking to avoid uneven texture.

Is it necessary to use heavy cream?

Heavy cream adds richness and creaminess, but you can substitute with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free option.