Name: Marry Me Chicken Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 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, black 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. Transfer the chicken to a plate.

Step 2: Reduce the heat to medium and melt butter in the same pan. Add minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and the remaining ½ teaspoon paprika. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, 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: Lower the heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add fresh spinach and stir for 1-2 minutes until wilted and well combined.

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, then serve with extra Parmesan cheese on top if desired.

Tips & Variations

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

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

Try swapping fresh spinach with kale or arugula for a different leafy green texture.

Adding a splash of white wine before simmering the orzo adds extra depth to the sauce.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can also be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw thoroughly before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and can add extra juiciness and flavor. Just adjust cooking time slightly if needed to ensure they cook through.

Is it necessary to use sun-dried tomatoes?

Sun-dried tomatoes add a sweet and tangy depth to the dish, but if you don’t have them, you can substitute with fresh cherry tomatoes or omit them altogether. The dish will still be delicious but with a slightly different flavor profile.