If you’re craving something creamy, comforting, and utterly swoon-worthy, this Marry Me Chicken Orzo is about to become your new favorite dinner. It’s got tender, golden chicken simmered in a luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce, all mingled with soft, buttery orzo that soaks up every bit of flavor. It’s one of those dishes where you’ll want to lick the plate clean.

This recipe combines rich textures and bold, romantic flavors that feel like a love letter in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a date night, a family dinner, or just treating yourself to something special, this dish delivers elegance with minimal effort. One skillet, a handful of ingredients, and a little magic turn into a restaurant-quality meal in under an hour.

Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken Orzo

It hits that perfect balance of creamy and savory, with a gentle tang from sun-dried tomatoes and a cozy creaminess that makes every forkful feel like a warm hug. The orzo adds a unique twist, giving the dish a risotto-like texture without the constant stirring. And let’s not forget the simplicity: everything comes together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a classic choice for this dish, as they sear beautifully and stay juicy when simmered in sauce. If you prefer, boneless thighs also work wonderfully for an extra rich bite. Just make sure whatever cut you use is evenly sized so it cooks uniformly and stays tender.

Ingredients for the Marry Me Chicken Orzo

To bring this comforting dish together, you’ll need a short list of flavorful ingredients that each play a key role in the final result.

Chicken breasts for the juicy, golden protein base.

Salt and black pepper to season the chicken and bring out all the other flavors.

Olive oil for searing the chicken and building the base of the sauce.

Garlic adds a savory punch and aromatic depth.

Sun-dried tomatoes offer a tangy, slightly sweet burst of flavor that infuses the whole dish.

Chicken broth helps cook the orzo and intensifies the savory richness.

Heavy cream brings the luxurious texture that makes the sauce velvety and rich.

Parmesan cheese melts into the sauce, adding nutty, salty depth.

Orzo pasta is the creamy, risotto-like starch that soaks up all the flavors beautifully.

Fresh basil for a bright, herbal finish that cuts through the richness perfectly.

How To Make the Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken until golden on both sides and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then toss in the sun-dried tomatoes. Let everything cook for a few minutes to deepen the flavor.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese, letting it melt into a silky sauce.

Step 4: Add the Orzo

Stir in the orzo pasta and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed much of the sauce. This should take around 10-12 minutes.

Step 5: Finish with Chicken and Basil

Nestle the chicken back into the skillet, spooning sauce over the top. Sprinkle with fresh basil and let everything simmer together for a couple more minutes to combine flavors.

Serving and Storing Marry Me Chicken Orzo

This dish serves about 4 people generously, making it perfect for a small gathering or a weeknight dinner with leftovers. Serve it straight from the skillet for a rustic, cozy vibe. If you’re storing leftovers, let them cool completely before sealing in an airtight container. The flavors get even better overnight and it reheats well on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to loosen up the sauce.

What to Serve With Marry Me Chicken Orzo?

Garlic Bread

To mop up every drop of that dreamy sauce, garlic bread is a must.

Roasted Green Beans

Crisp-tender and slightly charred green beans add freshness to the rich orzo.

Simple Arugula Salad

A zesty salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the creamy flavors beautifully.

Steamed Asparagus

Lightly steamed asparagus is a great low-fuss side that brings a bit of elegance.

Parmesan Roasted Broccoli

Oven-roasted broccoli with crispy cheese edges fits right into this comforting plate.

Lemon Butter Carrots

Sweet and tangy carrots add a colorful, vibrant touch.

White Wine

A glass of dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love this creamy chicken dish, you might enjoy these other one-pan favorites:

• Easy One Pan Mozzarella Chicken Recipe for gooey cheese and bold tomato flavor.
• Crispy Buttered Ranch Chicken when you’re in the mood for crunchy comfort.
• Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce for bold flavors and luscious texture.
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes if you want hearty, filling bites in every forkful.
• Chicken Shawarma in a Loaf Pan when you want something savory and oven-ready.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use chicken thighs or breasts? Did you sneak in some spinach or swap the cream for coconut milk?

I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Questions are welcome too. Let’s keep cooking fun and flavorful.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new weeknight staple.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Orzo proves that a comforting meal doesn’t have to be complicated. With bold flavors, creamy richness, and the simplicity of one skillet, it’s the perfect go-to when you want to impress without stress. Whether you’re cooking for a loved one or just treating yourself, this is one of those meals you’ll want to keep in regular rotation.