Easy Marry Me Chicken Orzo
A delightful dish featuring tender chicken, creamy orzo, fresh spinach, and Parmesan cheese, perfect for romantic dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Protein
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Trim any excess fat and season lightly with salt and pepper before cooking.
Starch/Pasta
- 1 cup orzo pasta Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 9-11 minutes.
Liquids/Dairy
- 2 cups chicken broth Use low-sodium broth for less salt.
- 1 cup heavy cream Add towards the end of cooking for a velvety sauce.
Aromatics & Vegetables
- 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped) Add at the end of cooking to preserve nutrients.
Seasoning/Spice Blend
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Sprinkle over the chicken and orzo as it cooks.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Can substitute with fresh herbs like basil or parsley.
- Salt and pepper to taste Be cautious with salt due to the broth.
Optional Finishing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Best to use freshly grated for flavor.
For Cooking
- Olive oil For cooking the chicken.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes.
Cooking
- Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it and set aside. Add the orzo to the same skillet and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cover and let it cook for about 9-11 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.
- Lower the heat and slowly mix in the heavy cream and chopped spinach. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.
- Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
Serving
- Slice the chicken and nestle it atop the creamy orzo before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, sauté some onions or garlic before adding the orzo. Customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins!