Name: Marry Me Chicken Orzo – Creamy One-Pan Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless (skinless chicken breast, cut into cubes); ½ tsp kosher salt; 1 tsp ground black pepper; For Cooking:; 2 tbsp olive oil; 4 –5 cloves garlic (mashed); ¾ cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained); 2 tsp Italian seasoning; 2 tsp paprika; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 ¾ cups chicken broth (or water); ¾ cup full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream; 2 large handfuls fresh spinach; ¾ cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)

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If you’ve never tried Marry Me Chicken Orzo, you’re in for a treat that’s as cozy as it is irresistible. Juicy cubes of chicken, tender orzo pasta, and a creamy, sun-dried tomato sauce mingle in one skillet for a dish that feels special yet simple enough for a weeknight. The name “Marry Me” comes from its legendary flavor combination—so delicious, it could inspire a proposal. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a romantic dinner, this recipe delivers big flavors with minimal fuss. With just a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you’ll create something unforgettable in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Marry Me Chicken Orzo is the kind of meal you’ll want to make on repeat:

Bold, layered flavors – Creamy coconut milk or heavy cream, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan make magic together.
One-pan magic – Minimal cleanup without sacrificing depth of flavor.
Beginner-friendly – Clear, simple steps that guarantee success.
Flexible – Works for weeknights, special dinners, or meal prep.

The Story Behind Marry Me Chicken Orzo

The Marry Me Chicken Orzo idea grew from the viral “Marry Me Chicken” dish, which captured the internet’s attention for its luxurious sauce and heartwarming appeal.

The name reflects its “love at first bite” reputation.
Orzo, a rice-shaped pasta, is ideal for absorbing rich, creamy sauces.
Adding spinach makes this version fresher and more colorful than the classic.

Key Ingredients in Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Boneless, skinless chicken breast – Cut into cubes for quick, even cooking.
Olive oil – Helps brown the chicken and adds depth of flavor.
Garlic – Infuses the sauce with warm, aromatic notes.
Sun-dried tomatoes – Provide tangy, slightly sweet richness.
Italian seasoning & paprika – Add savory herb and spice complexity.
Orzo pasta – Small pasta that cooks in the same pan as the chicken.
Chicken broth – Cooks the orzo and infuses it with savory flavor.
Full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream – Creates the creamy base.
Fresh spinach – Adds a fresh, colorful balance to the rich sauce.
Parmesan cheese – Melts into the sauce for nutty, salty goodness.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Prep the chicken – Pat the chicken cubes dry with a paper towel for better browning.
Sear the chicken – Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook 2–3 minutes, until the edges begin to turn opaque.
Add flavor – Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 3–4 minutes to release aromas.
Add pasta & liquid – Pour in orzo and chicken broth. Stir well to combine and ensure pasta is submerged.
Simmer – Reduce heat to medium, cover, and cook for 12 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking.
Creamy finish – Stir in coconut milk (or heavy cream) and spinach. Cook until spinach is wilted.
Cheesy touch – Add Parmesan and stir until melted and the sauce is silky.
Serve hot – Remove from heat, plate immediately, and enjoy.

Marry Me Chicken Orzo Tips and Twists

Tips:
1. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest melt.
2. Stir the orzo regularly to avoid sticking.
3. Adjust liquid as needed if the pasta absorbs too much.
4. For richer flavor, use chicken broth instead of water.
5. Wilt the spinach at the very end to preserve its bright color.
Variations:
1. Swap chicken for shrimp and reduce cooking time.
2. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
3. Use kale instead of spinach for a heartier green.

Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.
Make-Ahead: Cook the chicken and prepare the sauce in advance; cook orzo fresh before serving for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Marry Me Chicken Orzo with warm garlic bread to scoop up the creamy sauce, or a light side salad with lemon vinaigrette for contrast. For drinks, crisp white wine or sparkling water with citrus pairs beautifully. Serve straight from the skillet for a rustic, inviting feel that encourages seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use whole wheat orzo?
A: Yes, but add a few extra minutes to cooking time.
Q: Is coconut milk necessary?
A: No—heavy cream works just as well for a classic taste.
Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Yes, use gluten-free pasta and adjust cooking time.
Q: Can I freeze this?
A: Not recommended; cream sauces can separate after thawing.
Q: Can I add more vegetables?
A: Absolutely—mushrooms, zucchini, or peas work well.

Enjoy Your Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Now that you’ve got this Marry Me Chicken Orzo recipe in your back pocket, you can whip up a restaurant-quality dinner anytime. With tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked orzo, it’s a one-pan wonder that feels indulgent yet comes together quickly. Perfect for weeknights, special occasions, or impressing someone special—this dish truly lives up to its charming name.

Explore More Recipes

If you loved this Marry Me Chicken Orzo, try our Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese for another cozy pairing. For a refreshing side, the Cucumber Tomato Salad brightens the meal. Or switch things up with the Simple Marry Me Chicken Pasta for a variation on the same irresistible flavors. And if you’re in the mood for dessert, our Best Carrot Cake Cookies make a sweet ending.

Marry Me Chicken Orzo – Creamy One-Pan Dinner

This Marry Me Chicken Orzo recipe combines juicy chicken, creamy sauce, and tender orzo pasta in a single skillet. Perfect for beginner home cooks, it’s flavorful, hearty, and ready in under 30 minutes. A guaranteed family favorite!

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American, Italian-Inspired

Keyword creamy orzo recipe, easy chicken and pasta, Marry Me Chicken Orzo, one-pan chicken dinner, skillet chicken recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings 4 servings

Calories 520kcal

Author Abby Marlow

Ingredients

Chicken:

1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into cubes
½ tsp kosher salt
1 tsp ground black pepper
For Cooking:
2 tbsp olive oil
4 –5 cloves garlic mashed
¾ cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained
2 tsp Italian seasoning
2 tsp paprika

Pasta & Sauce:

1 cup orzo pasta
2 ¾ cups chicken broth or water
¾ cup full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream
2 large handfuls fresh spinach
¾ cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated

Instructions

Pat chicken cubes dry, season with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook for 2–3 minutes until edges begin to cook.
Stir in garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Cook 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
Add orzo and chicken broth, stir well to combine.
Reduce heat to medium, cover, and cook 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Stir in coconut milk (or cream) and spinach; cook until spinach wilts.
Add Parmesan cheese, stir until melted and creamy.
Serve hot and enjoy your Marry Me Chicken Orzo immediately.

Notes

For the creamiest Marry Me Chicken Orzo, use freshly grated Parmesan. For a lighter twist, swap heavy cream with half-and-half and add extra spinach for more greens.