Description

Juicy Marry Me Chicken Meatballs Orzo is a creamy, cozy easy dinner packed with tender chicken meatballs, flavorful orzo, parmesan, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, comforting dinner ideas, and food ideas when you want something rich, satisfying, and simple enough to make in one pan.

Ingredients

1 pound ground chicken

1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs

1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese

1 egg

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley or basil

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

3/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon butter

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/3 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes

1 cup uncooked orzo

2 cups chicken broth

3/4 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

2 cups fresh spinach

2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil

extra grated parmesan cheese for serving

fresh basil for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley or basil, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until just combined. Shape into small meatballs.

2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs for 6 to 8 minutes, turning gently, then transfer them to a plate.

3. In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 30 seconds.

4. Stir in the uncooked orzo and cook for 1 to 2 minutes to lightly toast it.

5. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir in the parmesan, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Bring to a gentle simmer.

6. Return the meatballs to the skillet. Cover loosely and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring the orzo occasionally, until the meatballs are cooked through and the orzo is tender.

7. Stir in the spinach and basil and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the spinach wilts.

8. Top with extra parmesan and fresh basil, then serve warm.

Notes

Use freshly grated parmesan for the smoothest sauce and best flavor.

Do not overmix the chicken meatball mixture or the meatballs can turn dense.

Add a splash of broth or cream when reheating leftovers to loosen the orzo and sauce.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 610
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 860mg
Fat: 31g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 42g
Cholesterol: 155mg