If you’re looking for a delicious and easy meal that both adults and kids will love, “Marry Me Chicken” is a great option! It’s creamy, flavorful, and perfectly comforting. Pairing it with orzo pasta makes it even more satisfying and kid-friendly. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide on how to make Marry Me Chicken Orzo, guaranteed to bring smiles to everyone at the dinner table.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup spinach (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This helps to enhance the natural flavors.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they become translucent—about 2-3 minutes.
4. Deglaze the Pan:
Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the skillet, scraping any bits stuck to the bottom. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the Orzo:
Stir in the orzo pasta into the skillet and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the orzo absorbs the liquid.
6. Add Cream and Parmesan:
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well, then mix in the grated Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
7. Mix in the Chicken:
Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return it to the skillet. Let it simmer together with the orzo for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring the chicken is cooked through.
8. Stir in the Spinach:
Add the fresh or frozen spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted—about 1-2 minutes.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a burst of freshness and a pop of color. Serve the Marry Me Chicken Orzo hot, straight from the skillet.
Tips for Success:
- Adjust the Spices: Feel free to adjust the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes based on your family’s spice tolerance. For a milder flavor, reduce or skip the red pepper flakes.
- Cream Substitution: If you prefer a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or low-fat milk instead of heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly thinner.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to customize this dish by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms along with the spinach.
With its creamy texture, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked orzo, this recipe is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Enjoy your family meal!
