Marry Me Chicken Pasta: 7 Simple Steps to the Perfect Recipe!

7 Steps to Create the Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Are you ready to cook a dish so delicious it might just lead to a proposal?  This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly what you’re looking for! Combining tender, juicy chicken breasts with a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce and hearty orzo pasta, this dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a romantic evening at home. If you want to impress your loved ones (or maybe even get someone to say, “I do!”), then this is the recipe for you.

Why Is It Called “Marry Me Chicken”?

The term “Marry Me Chicken” originated from a recipe that’s rumored to be so incredibly delicious that anyone who tastes it will want to pop the question. Whether you believe in the lore or not, there’s no denying that this dish is a showstopper. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s a meal that will linger in your mind long after the plates have been cleared.

The original “Marry Me Chicken” was created by renowned chef Ina Garten, known for her simple yet elegant dishes. Since then, this recipe has been reinvented in countless ways, leading us to this unique Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe. By adding orzo pasta to the mix, we elevate this dish into a complete meal that’s comforting and filling.

A Quick Overview of the Recipe

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this easy weeknight dinner:

For the Chicken and Sauce:

• Boneless Chicken Breasts (1 lb, cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons)
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
• Sun-dried Tomatoes (1/2 cup, packed in oil, chopped)
• Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon)
• Paprika (1/2 teaspoon)
• Kosher Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)

For the Pasta:

• Orzo Pasta (1 cup)
• Chicken Broth (2 cups)
• Full-Fat Coconut Milk (1 cup) or Heavy Cream (for a richer taste)

For the Finish:

• Fresh Spinach (2 cups, roughly chopped)
• Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, grated)

Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken

Start by patting your boneless chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step ensures that the chicken browns beautifully when cooked. Cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes, season with kosher salt and black pepper, and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken pieces into the skillet. Sauté the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. This initial step creates a wonderful foundation of flavor.

Step 3: Infuse with Flavor

Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the pan. Stir in the Italian seasoning and paprika. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant. This is where the aroma will start to fill your kitchen and make everyone curious about what’s cooking!

Step 4: Incorporate the Orzo

Next, it’s time to add the orzo pasta.  Stir in the chicken broth and let the mixture simmer lightly. Stir the orzo in well to ensure that it’s evenly distributed throughout the chicken and sauce. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for about 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the orzo doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce

After the orzo has absorbed most of the liquid and is tender, it’s time to make it creamy. Stir in the full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream for that luxurious texture. Add the fresh spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach has wilted and the sauce is creamy and rich.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese

Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. This addition brings everything together and enhances the flavors even more.  Taste the sauce and modify the seasoning with extra salt and pepper as required. Once everything is combined and heated through, serve immediately!

Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

1. One-Pan Wonder: This dish falls into the category of one-pan recipes, which means you’ll spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your meal. It’s perfect for those busy nights when you just want something easy and delicious.
2. Comfort Food: The creamy texture and hearty ingredients make this a fantastic option for anyone craving comfort food. It’s great for chilly evenings or when you want something hearty.
3. Quick and Simple: Ready in just 30 minutes, this quick dinner recipe is perfect for weeknight cooking or last-minute dinner guests.
4. Adaptable: This dish is easily customizable. You can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein or add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
5. Healthy Ingredients: With lean chicken, fresh spinach, and the option for coconut milk, this recipe is not only delicious but also a great way to include healthy ingredients in your meals.

Serving Suggestions

To make your meal even more delightful, consider pairing your Marry Me Chicken Pasta with:

• Garlic Bread: A classic side that complements the creamy pasta perfectly.
• Simple Green Salad: Toss some mixed greens with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.

• Calories: Approximately 480 per serving (may vary based on ingredients used)
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 3g

This healthy chicken recipe is not only satisfying but also gives you the nutrients you need to feel good about your meal choices.

Make-Ahead

If you want to prepare in advance, you can marinate the chicken in the seasoning overnight, or chop the vegetables beforehand. While you can cook the entire dish ahead of time, it’s best to enjoy it fresh, as the orzo may absorb too much liquid when stored.

Storage

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent the pasta from drying out, and warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.

FAQs About Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Can I replace orzo with different kinds of pasta?

Absolutely! While orzo provides a unique texture and bite, you can substitute it with any small pasta shape like ditalini or even regular pasta, though cooking times may vary.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Use coconut milk as suggested in the recipe. Additionally, skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative to keep it dairy-free.

Can I add other vegetables?

Certainly! Feel free to incorporate your favorite vegetables. Options like bell peppers, zucchini, or even broccoli would work wonderfully in this dish.

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

If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, you can use fresh cherry tomatoes for a fresh flavor, but remember to adjust the cooking time to allow them to soften.

Conclusion

The Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is a delightful dish that’s not just a meal; it’s an experience. It combines the heartwarming flavors of chicken and sun-dried tomatoes with the creaminess of coconut milk and the comfort of pasta, all in one pan. This recipe is perfect for impressing your significant other, entertaining guests, or simply treating yourself to a comforting dinner after a long day.