Description
Marry me chicken orzo shines as a comforting Mediterranean-inspired dish packed with creamy textures and bold flavors. Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and tender chicken create a memorable meal you’ll want to savor until the last delicious bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken & Pasta:
- 650 grams (1.4 pounds) chicken breast, skinless and boneless, chopped
- 250 grams (8.8 ounces) orzo pasta
Vegetables & Aromatics:
- 3 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed
- 170 grams (6 ounces) sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained
- 120 grams (4.2 ounces) spinach
Liquids & Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or oil from sun-dried tomatoes)
- 650 milliliters (22 fluid ounces) hot chicken stock
- 150 milliliters (5 fluid ounces) double cream
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 50 grams (1.8 ounces) grated Parmesan
- Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Sear chicken pieces in hot oil over medium heat for 5 minutes until golden brown and slightly crisp on all surfaces.
- Reduce heat and introduce aromatic elements like minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, dried oregano, and paprika. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until garlic becomes fragrant and translucent.
- Pour orzo, chicken stock, and cracked black pepper into the pan. Mix thoroughly, cover, and simmer for 9-11 minutes, occasionally stirring to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Lower heat to minimum and fold in fresh spinach leaves and heavy cream. Gently stir for 2-3 minutes until spinach wilts and cream is heated through, confirming chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove pan from heat and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese, stirring to create a creamy, luxurious texture that binds all ingredients together.
Notes
- Customize Protein Swap chicken for tender turkey breast or firm tofu to suit different dietary preferences and keep the dish versatile.
- Control Spice Level Adjust paprika and add red pepper flakes sparingly to manage heat intensity without overwhelming other delicate flavors.
- Dairy-Free Adaptation Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a creamy, lactose-free alternative.
- Perfect Texture Ensure orzo doesn’t overcook by checking consistency frequently and adding extra stock if pasta appears too dry during cooking process.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 675
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 150mg