Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Mar 10

⏱ Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Serves: 4
Skill Level: Easy

Quick Note

February Giveaway Runner-Up Dish

This Marry Me Chicken Orzo took second place in our February giveaway, and for good reason. Tender chicken is simmered with creamy orzo, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and parmesan to create a rich, comforting one-pan meal. Fresh spinach adds balance while the silky sauce ties everything together.

A special thank you to our runner-up Chef Kayla — your wine opener and cookbook have been sent your way!

Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
4–5 cloves garlic, mashed
¾ cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil and drained
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
2 teaspoons paprika
½ teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 cup orzo pasta
2¾ cups chicken broth (or water)
¾ cup full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream
2 large handfuls fresh spinach
¾ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the cubed chicken and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.

Cook for about 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned.

Build the Flavor

Add the mashed garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to the pan.

Cook for about 1 minute, stirring until fragrant.

Cook the Orzo

Stir in the orzo and toast it for 1–2 minutes to absorb some of the flavor.

Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer.

Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has absorbed.

Make it Creamy

Stir in the coconut milk (or heavy cream) and fresh spinach.

Cook for another 2–3 minutes, until the spinach wilts and the sauce becomes creamy.

Finish the Dish

Remove from heat and stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve

Spoon into bowls and finish with extra parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper.

Chef Tip

Using sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil adds deeper flavor and helps enrich the sauce.

Chef Kayla