This one-pan chicken and orzo dish is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners. Inspired by the classic “Marry Me Chicken,” this version pairs tender chicken with creamy orzo, making it a hearty, comforting meal. The simplicity of the recipe and rich, sun-dried tomato flavors make it a crowd-pleaser. It’s a great dish for impressing guests or simply enjoying a homemade meal after a long day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick, with just one pan needed
- Rich, creamy flavor from coconut milk and parmesan
- Balanced with spinach for added nutrition
- Comforting and hearty, yet easy to make
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless, cubed.
- Olive Oil: For searing the chicken.
- Garlic: Fresh, mashed cloves for rich flavor.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Packed in oil for deeper taste.
- Orzo: A rice-shaped pasta that absorbs the sauce perfectly.
- Chicken Broth: Adds depth to the orzo.
- Coconut Milk or Heavy Cream: For a creamy, smooth sauce.
- Spinach: Fresh, to add nutrients and color.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated for a delicious cheesy finish.
- Seasonings: Italian seasoning, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper for depth.
How to Make One-Pan Chicken and Orzo:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook chicken cubes for 2-3 minutes until browned.
- Add garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the orzo and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the orzo is tender, mix in coconut milk and spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts.
- Finally, add parmesan cheese, stir, and serve immediately.
Cooking Tips:
- Stir occasionally while cooking the orzo to avoid sticking.
- Add extra broth if you prefer a looser consistency.
Helpful Tips:
- Substitute heavy cream if you don’t have coconut milk.
- Use a non-stick skillet for easier cleanup.
Details:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pan
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
- Diet: Gluten-Free adaptable
Notes:
- For a dairy-free version, omit parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 450
Protein: 32g
Carbs: 40g
Fat: 18g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes, you can use other short-cut pasta, but the cook time may vary.
How can I make it gluten-free?
Swap the orzo for a gluten-free pasta option.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat in a pan, adding a bit of broth or cream if needed.
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Conclusion:
This one-pan chicken and orzo dish combines creamy textures with hearty, nutritious ingredients. It’s a perfect choice for a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare in under 30 minutes. Enjoy!
PrintOne-Pan Chicken and Orzo
Description
This one-pan chicken and orzo dish is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners. Inspired by the classic “Marry Me Chicken,” this version pairs tender chicken with creamy orzo, making it a hearty, comforting meal. The simplicity of the recipe and rich, sun-dried tomato flavors make it a crowd-pleaser. It’s a great dish for impressing guests or simply enjoying a homemade meal after a long day.
Ingredients
- Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless, cubed.
- Olive Oil: For searing the chicken.
- Garlic: Fresh, mashed cloves for rich flavor.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Packed in oil for deeper taste.
- Orzo: A rice-shaped pasta that absorbs the sauce perfectly.
- Chicken Broth: Adds depth to the orzo.
- Coconut Milk or Heavy Cream: For a creamy, smooth sauce.
- Spinach: Fresh, to add nutrients and color.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated for a delicious cheesy finish.
- Seasonings: Italian seasoning, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper for depth.
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook chicken cubes for 2-3 minutes until browned.
- Add garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the orzo and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the orzo is tender, mix in coconut milk and spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts.
- Finally, add parmesan cheese, stir, and serve immediately.
Notes
For a dairy-free version, omit parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.