Marry Me Chicken is a beloved dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with a rich and creamy sauce, often complemented by the addition of sun-dried tomatoes and aromatic herbs. When paired with orzo, it becomes a hearty, satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. In this guide, we’ll walk you through easy and effective ways to prepare Marry Me Chicken with orzo, ensuring your dish is flavorful, visually stunning, and incredibly delicious.
Marry Me Chicken, chicken breasts sauteed in cream sauce with sundried tomatoes, thyme, red pepper flakes, basil and crispy fried bacon served on a plate, american cuisine
What Is Marry Me Chicken?
Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, savory chicken dish known for its luxurious sauce made from heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. The dish gets its name from its supposedly irresistible flavor—so good it might inspire a marriage proposal!
Pairing this creamy dish with orzo, a small rice-shaped pasta, makes for a complete, balanced meal. Orzo absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully, adding texture and richness to the dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the perfect Marry Me Chicken with orzo, gather the following ingredients:
For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for a juicier option)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Sauce:
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Orzo:
1 cup orzo
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken: Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Create the Sauce
Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the cream and cheese: Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and mix until the cheese has melted into the sauce.
Incorporate herbs and tomatoes: Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, thyme, basil, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer the sauce for 3–4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Cook the Orzo
Toast the orzo: Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Cook with broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the orzo cook for 8–10 minutes until tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Fluff and garnish: Remove from heat and fluff the orzo with a fork. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
4. Combine and Serve
Simmer the chicken in the sauce: Return the seared chicken to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Reduce the heat to low and let the chicken cook in the sauce for 10–12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Plate the dish: Serve the chicken on a bed of orzo, spooning generous amounts of sauce over the top. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and parsley, if desired.
Tips for Perfect Marry Me Chicken with Orzo
1. Use High-Quality Ingredients
Opt for fresh Parmesan cheese for the richest flavor.
Choose sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for a more robust taste and easier chopping.
2. Adjust the Spice Level
If you prefer a milder dish, omit the red pepper flakes. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra flakes.
3. Don’t Overcook the Chicken
Keep an eye on the chicken’s internal temperature to avoid drying it out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s perfectly cooked.
4. Make It Ahead of Time
This dish reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations to Try
1. Add Vegetables
Incorporate spinach or kale into the sauce for added nutrition and color. Simply stir in the greens during the last few minutes of cooking.
2. Swap the Protein
Replace chicken with shrimp or salmon for a seafood twist. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
3. Go Gluten-Free
Substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta or rice to accommodate dietary preferences.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe balances rich, creamy flavors with bright, tangy sun-dried tomatoes and aromatic herbs. Pairing it with Marry Me Chicken Orzo ensures the dish is
hearty and satisfying, while the simple preparation makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
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