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Marry Me Chicken with Risoni

Marry Me Chicken with Risoni

Creamy sun-dried tomato chicken with risoni cooks in one skillet for a cozy, weeknight-ready dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 1.25 tsp kosher salt plus more to taste
  • 0.75 tsp black pepper
  • 0.5 tsp paprika optional
  • 1.5 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 0.5 cup yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 tsp minced garlic
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 0.5 tsp crushed red pepper flakes adjust to heat preference
  • 0.5 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped oil-packed, drained
  • 1.25 cup orzo (risoni), uncooked
  • 2.5 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 0.75 cup heavy cream
  • 0.75 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated plus extra for serving
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 tsp lemon juice optional, to brighten

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Toss to coat evenly.
  2. Warm the olive oil and butter in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Sear the chicken in two batches until lightly browned, 3–4 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate.
  4. Soften the onion in the same skillet over medium heat, 2–3 minutes, scraping up brown bits.
  5. Stir in the garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  6. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and orzo. Toast, stirring, for 1 minute.
  7. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  8. Simmer uncovered, stirring often, until the orzo is just tender, 9–11 minutes.
  9. Return the chicken and any juices to the pan. Simmer until the chicken is cooked through, 2–3 minutes.
  10. Fold in Parmesan and basil. Add lemon juice if using. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
  11. Let stand 2 minutes to thicken, then serve hot with extra Parmesan.

Notes

Tip: For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of the tomato jar oil with the Parmesan. Variation: Swap basil for chopped parsley or add a handful of baby spinach at the end. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days; loosen with a splash of broth or cream when reheating.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Marry Me Chicken with Risoni flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.