Description
Irresistible marry me chicken with orzo promises a romantic culinary journey through creamy, herb-infused flavors. Parmesan-crusted chicken nestled in tender orzo creates a simple yet elegant meal you’ll want to savor again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1.5 pounds (680 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 2 large handfuls fresh spinach
Seasonings and Spices:
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 45 cloves garlic, mashed
Base and Additional Ingredients:
- 1 cup orzo
- 2 3/4 cups (650 milliliters) chicken broth or water
- 3/4 cup (180 milliliters) full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3/4 cup (120 grams) sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil and drained
- 3/4 cup (75 grams) parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by gently patting dry with a paper towel and cutting into uniform bite-sized cubes to ensure even cooking and better browning potential.
- Warm olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until it reaches a shimmering consistency, then carefully add chicken cubes and sear for approximately 2-3 minutes, developing a golden exterior without fully cooking through.
- Introduce aromatic ingredients including sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper, stirring thoroughly to distribute flavors and allow spices to bloom for 3-4 minutes.
- Incorporate uncooked orzo into the skillet, ensuring complete coating with existing seasonings and oil, then gradually pour chicken broth, mixing well and bringing to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce heat to medium, cover the skillet, and allow contents to cook for approximately 12 minutes, periodically stirring to prevent orzo from sticking and promote even absorption of liquid.
- Once orzo reaches desired tenderness, integrate coconut milk or heavy cream and fresh spinach, allowing spinach to wilt quickly and infuse the dish with vibrant color and nutrients.
- Complete the dish by sprinkling freshly grated parmesan cheese, stirring to create a luxurious, creamy sauce that binds all ingredients together with a rich, savory finish.
Notes
- Pat chicken breasts completely dry before cubing to achieve golden, crispy edges that lock in maximum flavor and prevent steaming.
- Stir frequently during cooking and use a non-stick skillet to ensure even cooking and prevent bottom burning.
- Swap heavy cream with coconut milk or plant-based cream alternatives for lactose-intolerant or vegan dietary needs.
- Replace chicken with tofu, tempeh, or plant-based chicken alternatives for vegetarian versions without compromising taste complexity.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg