Discover the Joy of Cooking Chicken Marsala Orzo Today!

Chicken Marsala Orzo is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and the rich, aromatic notes of Marsala wine. This one-pan wonder is a delightful blend of Italian and Mediterranean flavors, perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or impressive weekend gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting to explore the world of pasta and poultry, this Chicken Marsala Orzo recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Chicken Marsala Orzo

• 4 (6- to 8-oz.) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1″ pieces
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 8 oz cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, sliced
• 1 Tbsp chopped fresh thyme
• 8 oz orzo
• 1 cup dry Marsala wine
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season Chicken

Start by tossing the chicken with Italian seasoning, a generous pinch of salt, and a few grinds of black pepper. Lightly dredge the chicken in all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess.

Sear Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Working in batches if needed, cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Set the seared chicken aside on a plate.

Cook Veggies

Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Sauté the sliced mushrooms, finely chopped shallot, sliced garlic, and fresh thyme until the vegetables are tender and golden, about 5-7 minutes.

Toast Orzo

Stir the orzo into the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, just until the grains start to lightly toast.

Deglaze

Pour in the Marsala wine and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine simmer for about 2 minutes.

Simmer

Add the chicken broth to the skillet and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, about 10-12 minutes.

Finish Sauce

Stir in the heavy cream and the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter until everything is well combined and the sauce has thickened slightly. Gently fold the seared Chicken Marsala Orzo back into the skillet and cook just until heated through.

Garnish & Serve

Finish the dish by sprinkling the chopped fresh parsley over the top. Serve the Chicken Marsala Orzo warm and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Chicken Marsala Orzo

To achieve the best results with this Chicken Marsala Orzo recipe, be sure to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are of similar size for even cooking. Look for cremini (or “baby bella”) mushrooms, as they have a heartier texture and deeper flavor compared to traditional white mushrooms. When it comes to the Marsala wine, opt for a dry style, as it will provide the perfect balance of richness and acidity to the sauce. Lastly, taste and adjust the seasoning to your personal preferences, adding more salt, pepper, or fresh herbs as desired.

Nutritional Information

A serving of this Chicken Marsala Orzo dish contains approximately 530 calories, with 28 grams of protein, 49 grams of carbohydrates, and 23 grams of fat. It’s a well-balanced meal that provides a good source of lean protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats. The use of fresh ingredients like mushrooms, garlic, and thyme also contributes to the overall nutritional value of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve the Chicken Marsala Orzo with a fresh green salad or a simple side of roasted vegetables. A crusty loaf of bread or a side of garlic bread can also be a delicious accompaniment to soak up the flavorful sauce. As for wine pairing, a medium-bodied red wine like a Chianti or Malbec would complement the rich, savory flavors of the Chicken Marsala Orzo perfectly. And don’t forget about leftovers – this dish stores well in the refrigerator and can make for a tasty and convenient lunch or dinner the next day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will chicken orzo last in the fridge?

The Chicken Marsala Orzo will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. Be sure to let the dish cool completely before refrigerating.

Why is my marsala sauce not thickening?

If your Marsala sauce isn’t thickening as expected, there are a few possible reasons. First, make sure you’re simmering the sauce uncovered to allow some of the liquid to evaporate and concentrate the flavors. You can also try stirring in a small amount of cornstarch or all-purpose flour mixed with water to help thicken the sauce. Patience is key – the sauce will continue to thicken as it cooks.

How long can chicken marsala stay in the fridge?

Cooked Chicken Marsala Orzo can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent any cross-contamination.

Will orzo cook in a sauce?

Yes, orzo can absolutely cook directly in the sauce. In this Chicken Marsala Orzo recipe, the orzo is simmered in the chicken broth and Marsala wine, allowing it to absorb all the delicious flavors as it becomes tender and al dente.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo
• One-Pot Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Pasta
• One-Pot French Onion Pasta

Conclusion

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Chicken Marsala Orzo and elevate your weeknight dinner game. This one-pan wonder combines tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and the rich, aromatic notes of Marsala wine for a truly delightful dining experience. With its easy-to-follow instructions and versatile serving suggestions, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to savor the deliciousness of Chicken Marsala Orzo. Bon appétit!

Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.

Print