Tender “Marry Me” Chicken Orzo – Creamy Skillet Dinner Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of a dinner that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, then look no further than this Tender “Marry Me” Chicken Orzo – Creamy Skillet Dinner Recipe. It takes the classic beloved “Marry Me” chicken’s rich sun-dried tomato flavors and pairs them with tender chicken breast cubes and a luscious, creamy orzo base that practically melts in your mouth. This dish is a perfect harmony of flavor and comfort, effortlessly coming together in one pan for a truly cozy weeknight meal. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be craving it on repeat!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every single ingredient in this recipe plays an important role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. You don’t need a long list — just simple, quality components that marry beautifully in the skillet.

• 1.5 Pounds Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast, cubed: Tender chicken bites form the hearty protein base of this dish.
• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps cook the chicken to a golden perfection.
• 4-5 Cloves Garlic, mashed: Gives aromatic depth and a savory punch to every bite.
• ¾ Cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes, packed in oil and drained: These bring an intense, tangy burst that defines the classic flavor.
• 2 Teaspoons Italian Seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that ties everything together beautifully.
• 2 Teaspoons Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth and gorgeous color.
• ½ Teaspoon Kosher Salt: Balances all the flavors perfectly.
• 1 Teaspoon Ground Black Pepper: Gives just the right amount of gentle heat.
• 1 Cup Orzo: This rice-shaped pasta is the creamy, comforting base that soaks up all those beautiful flavors.
• 2 ¾ Cups Chicken Broth or Water: Keeps the orzo tender and infuses every bite with richness.
• ¾ Cup Full-Fat Coconut Milk or Heavy Cream: The secret to the creamy, velvety texture that makes this dinner irresistible.
• 2 Large Handfuls Fresh Spinach: Adds a fresh, vibrant pop of color and nutrition.
• ¾ Cup Parmesan Cheese, freshly grated: Creamy, salty, and utterly luxurious finishing touch.

How to Make Tender “Marry Me” Chicken Orzo – Creamy Skillet Dinner Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Chicken

Start by patting your boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry and cutting them into bite-sized cubes. This step is key for even cooking so each piece becomes tender and juicy rather than dry or tough. Setting the stage here makes the rest of the recipe flow smoothly.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat your skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. When the oil is hot, toss in the chicken cubes and cook them for about 2-3 minutes. You want to see the edges slightly crisp and golden, establishing that wonderful sear which locks in flavor. This is the base of our creamy delight.

Step 3: Add Aromatics and Spices

Next, stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, mashed garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook these with the chicken for another 3-4 minutes. This step fills your kitchen with a heavenly aroma and allows the spices to meld perfectly, infusing the chicken with richness and complexity.

Step 4: Incorporate Orzo and Broth

Now, it’s time for the orzo and chicken broth. Pour them into the skillet and stir everything well. Reduce your heat to medium and cover the pan. Let it cook for about 12 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent the orzo from sticking. This simmer allows the pasta to absorb all those incredible savory flavors.

Step 5: Add Creaminess and Greens

Once the orzo is beautifully cooked and tender, stir in the creamy coconut milk or heavy cream along with the fresh spinach. Watch the spinach wilt luxuriously into the sauce, adding a fresh contrast and a touch of green vibrancy to your dish.

Step 6: Finish with Parmesan

Finally, sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet and stir well. This finishing move gives the dish that last layer of decadence, making it irresistibly creamy and slightly cheesy. Once done, remove it from heat, serve immediately, and enjoy every spoonful!

How to Serve Tender “Marry Me” Chicken Orzo – Creamy Skillet Dinner Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing is where you can add a little personality to the dish. Try topping it with extra freshly grated Parmesan for cheesier bites or a few sprigs of fresh basil to introduce a pop of herbal brightness. A drizzle of good olive oil over the top also enhances the mouthfeel and shine.

Side Dishes

This creamy skillet dinner is a star on its own but pairing it with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables like asparagus, or even some crusty garlic bread takes the meal up a notch. These sides add crunch and balance to the creamy, luscious main dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more elegant twist, serve the Tender “Marry Me” Chicken Orzo straight from a beautiful cast-iron skillet right at the table for that rustic charm. Alternatively, portion it into warm bowls sprinkled with crushed red pepper flakes for a slight kick or toasted pine nuts for extra texture and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Tender “Marry Me” Chicken Orzo – Creamy Skillet Dinner Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s great for quick lunches or reheated dinners during busy weeks.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this dish later, freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing to preserve the texture of the chicken and orzo.

Reheating

When reheating, gently warm the dish on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems thick. Stir often to keep the creamy texture and prevent sticking. This method keeps the chicken tender and the sauce silky.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

Absolutely! Small pastas like acini di pepe or even tiny shells can work if you don’t have orzo on hand. Just keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! If you substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative, the recipe becomes dairy-free and still tastes amazing.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make this vegetarian, swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or your favorite plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. It will still be deliciously creamy and flavorful.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?

You can substitute sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers or even a spoonful of tomato paste to bring that rich, tangy depth to the sauce.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe leans toward mild, with warmth from paprika and black pepper but no heat from chili peppers. You can easily add crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of kick.

Final Thoughts

This Tender “Marry Me” Chicken Orzo – Creamy Skillet Dinner Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of comfort, ease, and flavor all in one skillet. If you’re searching for a recipe that makes dinner feel special without requiring hours in the kitchen, this one is a total winner. I can’t wait for you to make it, share it, and fall in love with every bite just like I did.

Print