Easy One-Pan Gluten-Free Marry Me Chicken Orzo: Your New Favorite 30-Minute Weeknight Meal
Welcome to your new obsession: the incredibly delicious and surprisingly simple Marry Me Chicken Orzo. This recipe has taken the internet by storm, and for good reason! It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to propose after the first bite—bursting with rich, savory flavors, yet incredibly easy to whip up in under 30 minutes. What’s even better? Our version is thoughtfully crafted to be gluten-free, with readily available options to make it dairy-free too, ensuring everyone at your table can enjoy this comforting meal.
The “Marry Me” phenomenon in recipes isn’t just a catchy name; it signifies a dish so profoundly satisfying and flavorful that it earns a special place in your culinary repertoire. They are known for their inviting taste, versatility, and often rely on ingredients you probably already have on hand. Our take on this beloved classic features gluten-free orzo, making it an ideal choice for guests with gluten sensitivities, without compromising on texture or taste.
In an effort to create a lighter, yet equally indulgent dish, we’ve skipped the heavy cream. Instead, a magical transformation occurs as the chicken broth and a hint of tomato paste meld together, creating an unexpectedly creamy, rich sauce that beautifully coats every grain of orzo. It’s a trick that leaves everyone asking for more, proving that you don’t need excessive fats for incredible flavor.
If you find yourself captivated by the delightful flavor profile of this Marry Me Chicken with Orzo, you absolutely must try our Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe. It also cleverly achieves a creamy texture without the addition of heavy cream and is a consistently popular choice for warming up on those brisk, chilly evenings.
Looking to elevate your meal? This Marry Me Chicken Orzo is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. For a light and refreshing accompaniment, consider my Spinach and Strawberry Caprese Salad. If you’re craving something warm and savory on the side, our Gluten-Free Zucchini Fritters are an excellent choice. And to finish your meal on a sweet note, my Gluten-Free Apple Tart offers the perfect balance of flavors.
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Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Marry Me Chicken Orzo
- Explosion of Flavor: This isn’t just a simple chicken and pasta dish. It’s a symphony of flavors! The robust garlic, the sweet and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and the savory Italian chicken sausage create a deep, harmonious taste that perfectly complements the tender, rice-shaped orzo. Every bite is an experience.
- Creamy Texture, No Cream Needed: Our secret to a rich, creamy sauce without the heaviness of traditional cream? The magical combination of chicken broth and tomato paste. As the ingredients simmer, they emulsify, creating a velvety sauce that feels incredibly luxurious and satisfying, but remains lighter on calories.
- Lightning Fast & Effortlessly Easy: Forget long hours in the kitchen! This recipe comes together in approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a true one-pan wonder, minimizing cleanup and making it the ultimate solution for busy weeknights when you need a delicious, homemade meal in a flash.
- Fantastic for Meal Prep: This isn’t just a dish to enjoy fresh; it’s also a meal prep hero! It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for packing into lunch containers for work or school. The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers just as delightful, if not more so, than the initial serving.
- Dietary Friendly: Naturally gluten-free with the use of gluten-free orzo, this recipe also offers simple substitutions for a dairy-free version, ensuring it can be enjoyed by a wider audience without sacrificing taste.
Having trouble finding Italian Chicken Sausage at your local grocery store? No worries! You can easily make your own at home. My detailed post on How to Make Homemade Italian Sausage with Ground Chicken or Turkey walks you through the simple steps. It’s much easier than you might think and allows you to control the ingredients perfectly!
Essential Ingredients for Your One-Pan Orzo
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this unforgettable Marry Me Chicken Orzo. For a complete list of quantities and detailed measurements, please refer to the printable recipe card located further down this page.
- Olive Oil or Butter: Both options work wonderfully as the base for sautéing. Olive oil will lend a slightly fruity, Mediterranean note, while butter offers a richer, more indulgent flavor. If using salted butter, remember to taste the dish before adding extra salt later.
- Onion (Yellow or White): Finely chopped, the onion will slowly caramelize and provide a sweet, aromatic foundation for the sauce. Yellow or white onions are generally preferred for their balanced flavor.
- Italian Chicken Sausage: This is the star protein! You can opt for links, removing them from their casings, or use ground Italian chicken sausage. Ensure it’s raw, not pre-cooked, as it needs to brown and cook through in the skillet, infusing the dish with its savory seasonings.
- Fresh Garlic: Absolutely essential for that signature Marry Me Chicken flavor. Freshly minced garlic delivers a pungent, aromatic kick that jarred garlic simply can’t replicate. A garlic press can make this step quick and easy!
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These intensely flavored gems add a wonderful sweet, tangy, and slightly chewy element. If using sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, remember to drain them well before dicing to avoid excess oil in your dish.
- Tomato Paste: A small but mighty ingredient, tomato paste provides deep, concentrated tomato flavor and helps build the creamy texture of the sauce. I highly recommend buying it in a tube for easy measurement and storage, as you often only need a small amount per recipe.
- Gluten-Free Orzo: This rice-shaped pasta is perfect for absorbing all the delicious flavors of the sauce. Using a certified gluten-free brand ensures this dish is safe for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.
- Chicken Broth: The primary liquid for cooking the orzo and forming the sauce. Choose a good quality, low-sodium chicken broth or stock to control the saltiness of the dish. Have extra chicken stock on hand? Put it to good use with our fantastic Chicken Marsala recipe!
- Fresh Spinach: A vibrant addition that wilts down beautifully into the sauce, adding a boost of nutrients, color, and a fresh, earthy taste.
- Pecorino Romano Cheese: This hard, salty Italian cheese adds a sharp, savory, and wonderfully umami flavor. Freshly shredded from the block will always yield the best flavor and melting quality.
- Optional for Extra Creaminess (Dairy-Free Option): For an even richer, creamier texture, you can stir in 2 wedges of Laughing Cow Cheese or 2 tablespoons of low-fat cream cheese with a splash of milk at the end. For a dairy-free version, a touch of canned full-fat coconut milk (stirred in at the end) or a plant-based cream cheese alternative works perfectly.
Customizing Your Marry Me Chicken Orzo: Substitutions and Variations
One of the best aspects of “Marry Me” recipes is their adaptability. Feel free to experiment with these substitutions and variations to tailor the dish to your preferences or dietary needs:
- Orzo Alternatives: While gluten-free orzo is fantastic, if gluten isn’t a concern for you or your guests, regular wheat-based orzo can be used interchangeably. For other gluten-free options, consider small pasta shapes like ditalini or even short-grain rice, though you might need to adjust the liquid amount slightly if using rice to achieve the desired consistency.
- Greens Power-Up: Baby spinach is preferred for its delicate texture, but heartier greens like regular spinach or finely chopped kale can also be used. Just ensure to chop tougher greens finely for even cooking. I highly recommend avoiding frozen spinach, as it releases too much water and alters the overall texture of the dish.
- Dairy-Free Delight: To make this dish completely dairy-free, simply omit the Pecorino Romano cheese. For that desirable creamy finish, stir in 1/4 to 1/2 cup of full-fat canned coconut milk (not the drinking kind) at the very end of the cooking process. A plant-based cream cheese alternative can also work if you desire an extra thick sauce.
- Protein Swaps: If Italian chicken sausage isn’t available or preferred, ground turkey sausage or even lean ground chicken seasoned with Italian herbs, fennel, and a pinch of red pepper flakes can be excellent substitutes. For a vegetarian option, consider adding pre-cooked chickpeas or white beans during the simmering stage, or a plant-based sausage alternative.
- Add More Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and texture by incorporating more vegetables. Sliced mushrooms can be sautéed with the onions, or diced bell peppers and zucchini can be added alongside the sun-dried tomatoes.
- Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added with the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to give the dish a subtle kick.
- Extra Cheese Please: If you’re a cheese lover and dairy isn’t an issue, feel free to experiment with other Italian cheeses like freshly grated Parmesan, a blend of Italian cheeses, or even some fresh mozzarella stirred in at the end for an extra gooey texture.
Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Orzo
Creating this flavorful one-pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo is straightforward. Follow these steps for a perfect, creamy, and satisfying meal every time:
Step 1: Sauté the Onions. Begin by preheating your chosen olive oil or butter in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the finely diced onions and sauté them gently for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft, translucent, and fragrant. This step builds the aromatic base of your dish.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken Sausage. Add the raw Italian chicken sausage (removed from its casing if using links) to the skillet with the softened onions. Cook the sausage, using a spoon or spatula to break it apart into smaller, even pieces as it browns. Continue cooking until the sausage is fully cooked through and nicely caramelized, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Ensure there are no pink bits left.
Step 3: Break Apart the Sausage. As the sausage cooks, continue breaking it apart with your utensil. Aim for small, bite-sized crumbles that will distribute evenly throughout the orzo. This ensures every mouthful is packed with flavor and texture. Once browned, the sausage contributes a rich depth to the dish.
Step 4: Bloom Aromatics and Toast Orzo. Create a small space in the center of the skillet and add the minced garlic, diced sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste. Sauté for about a minute, stirring them directly in the hot pan until fragrant and the tomato paste has slightly darkened, indicating it has bloomed. Then, add the gluten-free orzo and a pinch of salt to the pan. Stir everything together well, allowing the orzo to lightly toast for another minute, which enhances its nutty flavor and prevents it from clumping.
Step 5: Simmer the Orzo. Pour the chicken broth into the pan, stirring to combine all the ingredients thoroughly. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to very low. Cover the skillet tightly with a lid and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes. During this time, the orzo will absorb the liquid and become tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The goal is for most of the liquid to be absorbed, but the dish should still be wonderfully moist.
Step 6: Wilt the Spinach. Once the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, remove the lid. Add the fresh spinach to the pan. Stir gently to combine the spinach with the hot orzo mixture. The residual heat will quickly wilt the spinach, typically within 1-2 minutes. Continue stirring until all the spinach has softened and blended into the dish. Remove the skillet from the heat at this point.
Step 7: Achieve Creaminess. Your orzo should now be perfectly cooked with wilted spinach. This stage is crucial for the dish’s signature creamy texture. Ensure the heat is off, then add the freshly shredded Pecorino Romano cheese. Stir vigorously until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated, creating a luxurious, creamy sauce that coats every grain of orzo and piece of chicken. If using, now is the time to add the optional Laughing Cow cheese wedges or cream cheese with a splash of milk for extra richness. This step truly brings the “Marry Me” magic to life!
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy. Once everything is beautifully combined and creamy, your Marry Me Chicken Orzo is ready! Serve it hot, straight from the skillet or transferred to a large serving bowl, garnished with a little extra cheese or fresh parsley if desired. This dish stands wonderfully on its own, but also pairs perfectly with a crisp salad or crusty bread to soak up every last bit of that incredible sauce.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
This Marry Me Chicken Orzo is not only fantastic freshly made, but it also shines as a meal prep option. Here’s how to best prepare and store it:
Prep Ahead: While this dish is at its absolute best when served immediately after cooking, its robust flavors mean it also holds up beautifully for meal prepping. You can make it entirely in advance and portion it out for lunches throughout the week. It also makes a wonderful, comforting casserole to bring to a friend or family member.
To Store: Allow any leftover Marry Me Chicken Orzo to cool completely to room temperature before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2-3 days. Storing it properly helps maintain its flavor and freshness.
To Reheat: When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, this recipe reheats wonderfully! You can warm it up in the microwave for a few minutes until steaming hot, stirring halfway through. Alternatively, reheat it on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Because pasta tends to absorb liquid as it sits, you might find the orzo has thickened. To restore its creamy consistency, add a splash or two of extra chicken broth or water during reheating, stirring until it reaches your desired texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Traditional orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta made from wheat. However, finding excellent gluten-free alternatives is easier than ever! Brands like DeLallo, Barilla, and Jovial offer high-quality gluten-free orzo, often made from corn, rice, or a blend of gluten-free grains. If gluten-free orzo is not available in your area, you can substitute it with other small gluten-free pasta shapes like ditalini or even gluten-free elbow macaroni. For a completely different texture, you could also use short-grain rice (like Arborio or a sushi rice) for a risotto-like consistency, or even quinoa. Keep in mind that if you opt for rice or quinoa, the cooking time and the amount of liquid (chicken broth) may need to be adjusted slightly as they absorb liquid differently than pasta.
To guarantee your Marry Me Chicken Orzo is absolutely gluten-free, the most crucial step is selecting certified gluten-free orzo or your chosen gluten-free pasta substitute. Beyond the main ingredient, it’s vital to check the labels of all other components. Pay close attention to your chicken broth, as some brands may contain hidden gluten or be processed on shared lines. Similarly, review labels for sun-dried tomatoes (especially if packed in oil), tomato paste, and any seasonings you add. Opt for certified gluten-free varieties whenever possible. Additionally, prevent cross-contamination by using clean utensils, cutting boards, and pans that haven’t recently come into contact with gluten-containing foods. If you’re cooking for someone with celiac disease, always communicate with them to confirm which specific ingredients are safe and to understand their sensitivity levels.
Yes, this Marry Me Chicken Orzo recipe can definitely be adapted for a slow cooker for a more hands-off approach, though you’ll still need to perform some initial sautéing for the best flavor. Start by browning the Italian chicken sausage and sautéing the onions, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste in a skillet on the stovetop as directed in steps 1-4. This crucial step develops the deep, rich flavors. Once this is done, transfer the browned sausage mixture to your slow cooker. Add the chicken broth to the slow cooker and stir well. Cook on high for 2-3 hours or on low for 4-6 hours. About 30-45 minutes before the end of the total cooking time, stir in the gluten-free orzo and fresh spinach. Continue cooking until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, and the spinach is wilted. Finally, stir in the Pecorino Romano cheese (and any optional creamy additions) until melted and smooth. This method is perfect for busy days when you want a delicious meal waiting for you.
Absolutely! While Italian chicken sausage adds a unique flavor and texture, you can certainly substitute it with chicken breast or boneless, skinless chicken thighs. If using chicken breast, dice it into 1-inch pieces and brown it thoroughly in the skillet before adding the onions. For chicken thighs, you can also dice them and brown them. To mimic the flavor profile of Italian sausage, you might want to season the chicken generously with a blend of Italian seasoning, a pinch of fennel seeds, paprika, salt, and pepper during the browning stage. This will add depth and ensure your dish remains incredibly flavorful.
If you love a little heat, it’s very easy to add a spicy kick to your Marry Me Chicken Orzo. The simplest way is to add red pepper flakes (also known as chili flakes). Start with 1/2 teaspoon when you add the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to the pan, and cook for about a minute to bloom their flavor. Taste and add more if desired. You can also incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce at the end of cooking for an extra layer of warmth.
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One-Skillet Marry Me Chicken Orzo Recipe (Gluten-free)
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tsp olive oil or butter
- ½ onion diced
- 1 pound of Italian Chicken Sausage raw and removed from the casing
- 3 cloves of garlic minced
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes diced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup orzo gluten-free
- Pinch of salt
- 3 cups of chicken broth
- 2 cups of chopped fresh spinach
- ⅓ cup freshly shredded pecorino romano cheese
Optional
- 2 wedges Laughing Cow Cheese Wedges or 2 tablespoons low fat cream cheese + a splash of milk
Instructions
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Heat butter or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
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Stir in the chicken sausage, breaking it up as it cooks, until browned (approximately 5-7 minutes).
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Add minced garlic, sundried tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stir and cook for another minute until everything is coated and smells amazing, blooming the flavors.
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Pour in the orzo and a pinch of salt, stirring to toast the pasta slightly for about 1 minute.
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Add the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then cover and cook for 10-12 minutes on very low heat, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid (but not all!)
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Stir in the fresh spinach until wilted. Remove from heat.
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Add in the pecorino romano and stir until melty and creamy. If using, add the soft cheese and splash of milk for extra creaminess. Enjoy immediately!
Notes
Prep Ahead: This recipe can be made in advance, and reheats well. It is best served immediately after cooking, but can also work well as a casserole to make and bring to a friend.
To Store: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days.
To Reheat: This recipe can be reheated in the microwave or stovetop. Heat until steaming, and add a bit more chicken broth, if necessary, to loosen up the pasta.