If you’re looking for a comforting, family-friendly dinner that combines rich flavors with easy preparation, this Marry Me Chicken Orzo Bake is the perfect choice. Inspired by the famous Marry Me Chicken recipe, this casserole brings together tender chicken, creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese and orzo pasta in one irresistible baked dish.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1½ cups orzo pasta
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder and Italian seasoning.
Cook the chicken for 5 to 6 minutes until lightly browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
Add the orzo pasta and stir to coat it in the flavorful mixture.
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well.
Step 3: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
Add Parmesan cheese, spinach and red pepper flakes if using.
Mix everything together until well combined.
Step 4: Bake
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
The top should be lightly golden and bubbling.
Step 5: Serve
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and additional Parmesan cheese before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan meal with minimal cleanup
- Rich, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce
- Tender chicken and perfectly cooked orzo
- Great for meal prep and family dinners
- Restaurant-quality flavor at home
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Steamed asparagus
- Fresh green salad
Recipe Tips
- Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
- Add mushrooms for additional flavor.
- Substitute kale for spinach if preferred.
- For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half.
This Marry Me Chicken Orzo Bake delivers everything people love about the original Marry Me Chicken recipe—creamy texture, savory chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes and plenty of Parmesan cheese—transformed into a hearty casserole that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
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