One Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo: Creamy, Savory, and Weeknight Perfect

There’s something irresistible about a dish that blends comforting flavors with effortless preparation, and this One Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo does exactly that. Inspired by the beloved “Marry Me Chicken,” this version pairs juicy seared chicken with tender orzo simmered in a creamy, sun-dried tomato–infused sauce. Everything cooks together in one skillet, allowing the flavors to meld into a rich, velvety, unforgettable dish.

The first time I made this, I added a splash of white wine along with the broth, and it deepened the sauce beautifully. I’ve also tried using chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra tenderness — both work wonderfully. Whether you’re cooking for a special evening or simply elevating a busy weeknight meal, this one-pan dish delivers restaurant-level flavor with minimal cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This One Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo combines creamy comfort with elegant flavor. The orzo absorbs every bit of the sauce, creating a risotto-like texture without the extra stirring. Sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan add layers of richness, while the tender chicken adds hearty satisfaction. Best of all, everything cooks in one pan, making this a convenient, quick, and flavorful option for any night of the week.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken Breasts or Thighs – Provide tender, juicy protein; thighs offer extra richness.

Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance every layer of flavor.

Olive Oil – Used to sear the chicken and sauté the aromatics.

Butter – Adds richness and helps create the base of the creamy sauce.

Garlic – Fresh garlic gives bold flavor that stands out in the sauce.

Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Add tangy depth and a slightly sweet, savory intensity.

Dry Orzo Pasta – Small, rice-shaped pasta that absorbs the sauce beautifully.

Chicken Broth – Provides savory flavor and the perfect cooking liquid for the orzo.

Heavy Cream – Creates a luxurious, velvety sauce that coats every bite.

Parmesan Cheese – Adds salty richness and thickens the sauce naturally.

Italian Seasoning – Brings a blend of herbs that complement the creamy sauce.

Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Add a subtle kick for those who enjoy heat.

Fresh Basil or Parsley (for garnish) – Adds freshness and color before serving.

Directions

Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden. Remove the chicken and set aside.

In the same skillet, melt butter, then sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and stir to combine.

Pour in the orzo, stirring to coat it in the oils and aromatics. Add the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release browned bits. Stir in heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the liquid. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 12–15 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the chicken is cooked through.

Remove the lid and stir in Parmesan cheese. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth; if too thin, simmer a minute longer. Finish with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm.

Equipment needed :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Prep time is about 10 minutes, cooking takes 20 minutes, and the dish is ready in roughly 30 minutes total — perfect for weeknight dinners.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid overheating in the microwave, as it can dry out the orzo. Freezing is not ideal due to the creamy sauce, but the dish is excellent for next-day lunches.

Variations and Customizations

Spinach Addition – Stir in fresh spinach at the end for color and nutrients.

Mushroom Upgrade – Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for earthy depth.

Lemon-Garlic Version – Add lemon zest and juice for a bright, tangy twist.

Herb Lovers’ Version – Add fresh thyme or rosemary for deeper aroma.

Spicy Option – Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.

Pesto Swirl – Stir in a spoonful of basil pesto for an herby, aromatic finish.

Tomato Cream Variation – Add a tablespoon of tomato paste for a rosier sauce.

Cheesy Alfredo Twist – Add extra Parmesan and a bit of mozzarella for a richer sauce.

Gluten-Free Version – Substitute gluten-free orzo if available.

White Wine Depth – Deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding broth.

FAQs

What is Marry Me Chicken Orzo?

It’s a creamy, one-pan dish combining seared chicken, orzo, and a rich, sun-dried tomato cream sauce.

Can I use chicken thighs?

Yes, thighs stay tender and flavorful, making them a great option.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use coconut milk or a creamy plant-based alternative and skip the Parmesan.

Do I need to cook the orzo separately?

No, it cooks right in the sauce, absorbing maximum flavor.

Can I use half-and-half instead of cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be slightly thinner — still delicious.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely — spinach, mushrooms, or peas work beautifully.

Is it spicy?

Only slightly, and you can omit the red pepper flakes if preferred.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but use a larger pan and increase simmering time slightly.

How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?

Stir occasionally during the first few minutes of simmering.

What can I serve with it?

Garlic bread, green salad, or roasted vegetables pair nicely.

Conclusion

This One Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo is the perfect mix of creamy comfort and effortless cooking. With tender chicken, silky orzo, and a luxurious tomato-infused sauce, it brings big flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner, a family meal, or a cozy weeknight dish, this recipe delivers every time — simple, hearty, and absolutely irresistible. It’s the kind of dish that earns compliments and repeat requests, proving that one-pan meals can be both elegant and incredibly satisfying.

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