Chicken Marsala Orzo is a luxurious and flavorful one-pan dish that combines tender chicken, creamy orzo pasta, and the rich, savory flavors of Marsala wine and mushrooms. Perfect for a comforting dinner, this recipe is elegant enough for special occasions yet simple enough to prepare on a busy weeknight. With its creamy texture and aromatic flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup Marsala wine
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Preparation
Step 1: Season the Chicken
In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika to coat evenly.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sear until golden brown on all sides, about 4â5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and cook until they are golden and tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent, about 2â3 minutes.
Step 4: Deglaze with Marsala Wine
Pour the Marsala wine into the skillet, scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits. Simmer for 2â3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 5: Cook the Orzo
Add the chicken broth to the skillet and bring to a boil. Stir in the orzo pasta and return the chicken to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 10â12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
Step 6: Add Cream and Parmesan
Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, cooking for another 2â3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and the chicken is fully cooked.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, or tofu for a meat-free alternative. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Gluten-Free Version: Substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta or rice.
- Extra Vegetables: Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers for more flavor and nutrients.
Cooking Notes
- Marsala wine is key to the dishâs unique flavor; opt for dry Marsala for a savory profile.
- Stir the orzo frequently while cooking to prevent it from sticking to the skillet.
- For a richer sauce, add a bit more heavy cream or Parmesan cheese.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this dish with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Serve alongside roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli for added vegetables.
Tips
- Sear the chicken well to develop a flavorful base for the dish.
- Donât rush the Marsala reductionâit enhances the depth of the sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed.
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cooking Time
25 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 22g
FAQs
Q: Can I use another wine if I donât have Marsala?
Yes, a dry white wine or sherry can work as a substitute, though the flavor will differ slightly.
Q: Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead and reheat gently. Keep in mind that the orzo may absorb more liquid as it sits, so you may need to add a bit of broth or cream when reheating.
Q: Is there a way to make this lighter?
For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the Parmesan cheese.
Conclusion
Chicken Marsala Orzo is a comforting, flavorful dish thatâs as delightful to eat as it is to prepare. The combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, creamy orzo, and the distinct sweetness of Marsala wine creates a harmonious blend of flavors thatâs sure to impress. This recipe is versatile, easy to customize, and perfect for both family dinners and special occasions. Treat yourself to a bowl of this creamy, savory goodnessâitâs a recipe youâll want to make again and again!