I like how this recipe transforms simple pantry ingredients into something extraordinary. The chicken becomes beautifully seasoned and juicy, while the orzo absorbs all the rich flavors of the sauce. The sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan add a savory depth that pairs perfectly with the cream and spinach. It’s elegant enough for a date night but simple enough for a weeknight dinner — one of those meals that makes everyone at the table say, “Wow.”
Ingredients
(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)
For the Chicken 1 lb chicken thighs 1 tbsp sweet smoked paprika 1 tbsp Italian seasoning Salt, to taste Black pepper, to taste
For the Sauce 2 tbsp sun-dried tomato powder 2 tbsp sun-dried tomato oil 2 tbsp butter 1 tbsp dried shallots 1 tbsp minced onion 3 cloves minced garlic ½ cup diced sun-dried tomatoes 2 tbsp tomato paste 1 tbsp basil
For the Pasta and Creaminess 3 cups chicken broth 1 cup orzo 1 cup heavy cream 2 cups spinach ½ cup Parmesan cheese ¼ cup fresh basil
Directions
Season and cook the chicken: Rinse and pat dry the chicken thighs. Rub them with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and sun-dried tomato powder. Heat sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove and let rest.
Build the flavor base: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the dried shallots, minced onion, and garlic for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Add diced sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and basil. Stir and cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
Cook the orzo: Pour in the chicken broth and add the orzo to the pan. Stir, then return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Cover and cook on medium-low heat for 12–15 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Add cream and greens: Stir in the heavy cream and spinach. Let the spinach wilt and the sauce become creamy. Mix in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan. Serve immediately for the ultimate creamy comfort meal.
I sometimes use chicken breasts instead of thighs for a lighter option.
For extra heat, I add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
I’ve swapped orzo for short pasta like ditalini or couscous when I’m out of orzo.
To make it extra indulgent, I stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese along with the cream.
I love tossing in roasted red peppers or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. The flavors deepen even more the next day, making it a great make-ahead meal.
FAQs
Why is it called “Marry Me Chicken”?
The name comes from how delicious it is — it’s said to be so good, it could inspire a marriage proposal!
Can I make this with chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts work beautifully, just make sure not to overcook them.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes — replace the heavy cream with coconut cream and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
What can I use instead of sun-dried tomato powder?
I simply increase the amount of diced sun-dried tomatoes or add a spoonful of tomato paste for similar richness.
How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?
I stir it frequently during cooking and make sure there’s enough broth or liquid to keep it creamy.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, just thaw and drain it well before adding it to the sauce.
Is this dish spicy?
Not inherently, but I sometimes add chili flakes for a gentle kick.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes — it reheats well and even tastes better the next day once the flavors meld.
Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, though the sauce will be slightly lighter. It still turns out creamy and flavorful.
What can I serve it with?
I love pairing it with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad to balance the richness.
Conclusion
I adore this Marry Me Chicken Orzo because it delivers creamy, savory perfection in every bite. The tender chicken, silky sauce, and delicate orzo make it a dish that feels comforting yet sophisticated. Whether I make it for a cozy night in or to impress someone special, it never fails — it’s rich, flavorful, and utterly irresistible.
Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a luxurious yet easy one-pan meal featuring tender chicken thighs, creamy orzo, and a rich sun-dried tomato sauce. Bursting with Mediterranean-inspired flavors, it’s comforting, elegant, and ready in just 30 minutes — perfect for both romantic dinners and weeknight meals.
Ingredients
1 lb chicken thighs
1 tbsp sweet smoked paprika
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp sun-dried tomato powder
2 tbsp sun-dried tomato oil
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp dried shallots
1 tbsp minced onion
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup diced sun-dried tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp dried basil
3 cups chicken broth
1 cup orzo
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups spinach
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
Pat chicken thighs dry and season with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and sun-dried tomato powder.
Heat sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté dried shallots, minced onion, and garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. Add diced sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, and a pinch of salt. Stir and cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
Pour in chicken broth and stir in orzo. Return chicken to the skillet, cover, and cook on medium-low heat for 12–15 minutes until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Stir in heavy cream and spinach. Let the spinach wilt, then mix in Parmesan until melted and the sauce is creamy.
Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan. Serve hot with garlic bread or a crisp salad.
Notes
Substitute chicken breasts for a lighter option.
Add crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
Use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Stir in a spoonful of cream cheese for extra richness.
Add mushrooms or roasted red peppers for added depth and texture.
