If you’re searching for a fuss-free dish that feels both impressive and soul-satisfying, you’ve just found your new favorite: Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}. Tender bites of chicken, creamy orzo, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, and bursts of spinach come together in a velvety, parmesan-laced sauce—all in a single pan! This is the kind of meal that makes you immediately reach for seconds and daydream about leftovers before you’ve even finished your first helping.

Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best parts about Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} is how each ingredient truly shines. These pantry and fridge staples combine to build layers of flavor, color, and irresistible texture with very little effort on your part.

Chicken breast (650g): Chopped into bite-sized pieces so every forkful has perfect, juicy chicken.
Olive oil (1 tbsp): Or use oil from your sun-dried tomato jar for a savory, aromatic boost.
Garlic cloves (3): Freshly crushed for vibrant, aromatic depth.
Sun-dried tomatoes in oil (170g): Intensely flavored and slightly chewy for sweetness and umami.
Oregano (1 tsp): Lends rustic, herby warmth that ties the dish together.
Paprika (2 tsp): Adds gentle smokiness and gorgeous color.
Orzo (250g): Little rice-shaped pasta that tenderly soaks up all the creamy sauce.
Hot chicken stock (650ml): Builds rich, savory undertones throughout the orzo and chicken.
Double cream (150ml): Provides luscious, silky texture that’s the hallmark of this dish.
Parmesan, grated (50g): Adds nutty complexity and melts beautifully into the sauce.
Spinach (120g): Brightens everything up with color and freshness right at the finish.
Freshly ground black pepper: Just a few cracks for balance and gentle heat.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Start by heating your olive oil in a big, deep frying pan over medium heat. Once things are sizzling, toss in your chopped chicken breast. Let the pieces get golden and just start to color—about five minutes. Stir occasionally so every little bit has contact with the pan for those irresistible bits of caramelization. This is the foundation that gives Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} so much savory flavor in every bite.

Step 2: Add Flavors

Reduce your heat and stir in the crushed garlic, diced sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and paprika. As soon as the garlic hits the pan, wonderful aromas will start to fill your kitchen! Let everything mingle for three to five minutes, just until the garlic softens and the oil becomes a gorgeous brick-red from the spices and tomatoes. This step is the secret to that signature depth you’ll crave.

Step 3: Simmer the Orzo

Next comes the orzo, chicken stock, and a few generous twists of black pepper. Give it a thorough stir so every grain of orzo gets slicked and ready to soak up flavor. Pop a lid on and let it simmer for about ten minutes, making sure to give it an occasional stir to prevent sticking. By the end, your orzo will be delightfully tender and coated in a golden, chicken-y broth—a sure sign you’re getting close to Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} magic.

Step 4: Finish Creamy and Fresh

Time for the finishing touches! Turn the heat way down to its lowest setting. Stir in the spinach and double cream until the leaves are wilted and bright green, and the cream is gently heated through (just one to three minutes). Grate in the parmesan, stir once more, and check your chicken is cooked through. You’re left with a beautifully creamy, almost risotto-like orzo with pops of green—ready to plate and dazzle.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}

Garnishes

Scatter extra parmesan and a flurry of fresh black pepper over the top for a magical, cheesy finish. Chopped basil or parsley adds a lovely fresh contrast and a pop of color. A drizzle of chili oil or a few crushed red pepper flakes can also level-up the dish for spice lovers—totally optional, but always popular when you want to show off your Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}!

Side Dishes

This one-pot meal is hearty enough on its own, but a simple green salad with a sharp vinaigrette can provide a refreshing note against the rich creaminess. Warm garlic bread or toasted baguette slices are fantastic for scooping up every last bit of sauce. Roasted green beans, asparagus, or a lemony slaw also pair beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For the ultimate dinner party vibe, scoop the Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} into pretty bowls and sprinkle with edible flowers or microgreens for a restaurant-worthy presentation. Or, portion it into individual ramekins and bake for a few minutes with an extra parmesan cap for crispy-topped mini servings—so fun and unexpected!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} stores brilliantly for easy lunches. Let it cool, then tuck into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors only deepen overnight, making every bite just as irresistibly creamy as when you first made it!

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze portions, cool down completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. It will keep well for up to two months. Allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for the best texture and flavor—just remember, creamy sauces are always best fresh, but this one stands up pretty well!

Reheating

Warm Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} gently in a saucepan or microwave, adding a splash of chicken stock or cream if it seems a bit thick. Stir occasionally so it reheats evenly, and finish with a fresh sprinkle of parmesan. The texture comes right back to creamy, dreamy perfection.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and add even more flavor. Just make sure to chop them the same way, and cook until they’re beautifully browned and cooked through for the best Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot} experience.

Is there a good substitute for orzo?

Sure thing! You can use other small pasta shapes like risoni or even tiny shells. Arborio rice works in a pinch too but will need a bit more liquid and a longer cook time.

How can I make this dairy-free?

Swap the double cream for coconut cream or your favorite unsweetened plant-based alternative, and use a dairy-free parmesan substitute. The dish will still be creamy and flavorful, perfect for those who need a dairy-free twist on Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}.

Can I add extra veggies?

Definitely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or green peas are all tasty additions. Sauté them along with the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes in step 2.

What type of pan is best for this one-pot meal?

A large, deep nonstick frying pan or a wide Dutch oven is perfect. You want plenty of surface area so the orzo cooks evenly and the creamy sauce can bubble away without sticking.

Final Thoughts

Once you’ve tried a steaming bowl of Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot}, you’ll see why this recipe is on constant repeat at my house. It’s simple, gorgeous, and bursts with layers of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or treating yourself, you deserve this cozy, one-pan wonder—so gather your ingredients and give it a go!