Description
This Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a creamy and flavorful dish featuring pan-seared chicken and perfectly cooked orzo pasta in a sun-dried tomato sauce. It’s a comforting and impressive meal perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in.
Ingredients
Scale
- 300g Chicken Breast, 1 tsp Smoked Paprika, 1 tsp Garlic Powder, 1 tsp Dried Oregano, Salt & Pepper
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 200g Orzo Pasta
- 1 cup Low-Sodium Vegetable Broth
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- ½ cup Tomato Sauce
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 2 cloves Garlic, Minced
- 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
- 1 tsp Lemon Zest
- ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp Parsley, Chopped
- 2 tbsp Pine Nuts, Toasted
- 1 tsp Pomegranate Molasses
- ½ tsp Chili Flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Season chicken with paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Sear Chicken: Sear chicken in olive oil until golden brown.
- Bake Chicken: Bake chicken at 400°F for 12-15 minutes until cooked through.
- Sauté Garlic: Melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Build Sauce: Simmer tomato sauce, lemon juice, zest, and chili flakes.
- Cook Orzo: Add cream, broth, and orzo; simmer until orzo is al dente.
- Finish & Combine: Stir in Parmesan (optional), then fold in sliced chicken.
- Plate & Garnish: Serve with pomegranate molasses, pine nuts, and parsley.
Notes
For a dairy-free option, use plant-based butter. Toasting pine nuts enhances their flavor. Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Bake, Sear
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 20 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg
Keywords: chicken,orzo,pasta,cream sauce,easy dinner,comfort food,italian,one pan,pomegranate,lemon