Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully and often stay even juicier during cooking.

Can I make One Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo ahead of time?

Yes. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.

Can I freeze this recipe?

You can, but cream-based sauces sometimes change texture after freezing. For the best results, enjoy it fresh or refrigerated.

Is coconut milk noticeable in the flavor?

Not strongly. Full-fat coconut milk adds creaminess while blending nicely with the garlic, Parmesan, and seasonings.

What can I serve with One Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo?

This dish is satisfying on its own, but it pairs beautifully with: Garlic bread Caesar salad Roasted vegetables Simple green salad

One Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo: Amazing 30-Minute Meal

Description

This One Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a creamy, comforting dinner made with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, Parmesan cheese, and perfectly cooked orzo. Everything comes together in one skillet for an easy, restaurant-quality meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
4–5 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained if packed in oil
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
2 teaspoons paprika
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 cup orzo
2 1/2 cups chicken broth (or water)
3/4 cup full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream
2 large handfuls fresh spinach
3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

Pat the chicken dry and cut into bite-sized cubes.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken and cook for 2–3 minutes until lightly browned.
Stir in garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes.
Add orzo and chicken broth. Stir well and reduce heat to medium.
Cover and simmer for about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
Stir in the coconut milk or heavy cream and fresh spinach. Cook for 1 minute until the spinach wilts.
Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Notes

Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.

Add a splash of broth if the sauce becomes too thick.

Chicken thighs can be substituted for chicken breasts.

For extra heat, add red pepper flakes before serving.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: One Pan / Stovetop
Cuisine: American-Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 690
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 980mg
Fat: 31g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 17g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 56g
Cholesterol: 155mg