Marry Me Chicken Orzo is a creamy, flavorful, and indulgent one-pot dish that has captured the hearts of many. This recipe is a game-changer for those who love the combination of tender chicken, succulent vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta. The dish gets its name from the swoon-worthy presentation and the fact that it's sure to make you fall head over heels in love with its rich and satisfying flavors. With its ease of preparation and ease of serving, Marry Me Chicken Orzo is perfect for a special occasion, a cozy night in, or even a quick weeknight dinner.
Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Orzo
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1 medium onion, diced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
* 1 cup frozen peas
* 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
* 1/2 cup chicken broth
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/2 teaspoon paprika
* Salt and pepper, to taste
* 1 cup orzo pasta
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
* Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken to the pot and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the frozen peas, white wine (if using), and chicken broth to the pot. Stir to combine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.
6. Add the browned chicken back to the pot, along with the Parmesan cheese, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
7. Add the orzo pasta to the pot and cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes.
8. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked al dente and the liquid has been absorbed.
9. If using heavy cream, stir it in just before serving.
10. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Variations:
* Spinach and Feta Variation: Add 1 cup fresh spinach leaves and 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese to the pot with the orzo pasta.
* Roasted Vegetable Variation: Roast 1 cup sliced zucchini, 1 cup sliced bell peppers, and 1 cup sliced cherry tomatoes in the oven with olive oil and salt until tender. Add them to the pot with the orzo pasta.
* Sun-Dried Tomato Variation: Add 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the pot with the orzo pasta.
* Goat Cheese Variation: Replace the Parmesan cheese with 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese.
Note: You can adjust the amount of garlic, thyme, and paprika to taste. Also, feel free to substitute the chicken with tofu or shrimp for a vegetarian or seafood option.
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