Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThere’s something wonderfully nostalgic about the aroma of a good meal simmering away on the stove, isn’t there? Today, I want to share my take on a cozy classic, Creamy Marsala Chicken Orzo, that effortlessly transports me to the charming streets of Italy with every bite. This one-skillet dish combines tender chicken in a luscious Marsala wine sauce, served over perfectly cooked orzo pasta—making it not only a main course but also a delightful comfort food made for weeknight dinners. With its quick prep time and soothing flavors, it’s the kind of meal that brings us together and wraps us in warmth. So, who’s ready to dive into this Italian-American delight and elevate your dinner table? Let’s get cooking! Why is Marsala Chicken Orzo a Family Favorite? Convenience: This creamy dish is a one-skillet wonder, making clean-up a breeze! No one wants to spend hours doing dishes after dinner. Flavor Explosion: The Marsala wine melds beautifully with garlic and fresh herbs, creating a sauce that’s both savory and slightly sweet, making every bite utterly satisfying. Versatile Serve: Pair it with a side salad or even some crusty bread for a complete meal that can please anyone at the table. Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or surprise guests, it never fails to impress with its restaurant-quality flair right at home! Whether you’re looking to try something new or just want to enjoy a hearty meal, this Cheesy Garlic Chicken can bring a delightful twist to your dinner rotation! Marsala Chicken Orzo Ingredients • To savor this delightful dish, gather the right ingredients and get ready to create magic in your kitchen! For the Chicken Chicken Breasts – Provides protein and absorbs flavors; boneless, skinless makes cooking easier. Olive Oil – For sautéing the chicken and garlic, ensuring a rich flavor base. For the Sauce Marsala Wine – Adds depth and sweetness to the sauce; feel free to substitute with dry white wine and honey if it’s not on hand. Butter – Creates a velvety sauce that envelops the chicken and orzo beautifully. Garlic – Fresh garlic is preferred for the best aromatic punch in your sauce. Chicken Broth – Enhances savory flavors; opt for low-sodium varieties if watching your salt intake. Fresh Herbs (Thyme or Rosemary) – Elevate the dish with their aromatic qualities, giving it that Italian flair. For the Pasta Orzo – A small, rice-like pasta that captures the sauce flavor perfectly; can substitute with small pasta like farfalle or fusilli. With these ingredients in hand, you’re well on your way to making a comforting and delicious Marsala Chicken Orzo that will surely become a treasured family favorite! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Marsala Chicken Orzo Step 1: Cook Orzo Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the orzo in a colander and set it aside, ready to soak up the delicious flavors of the creamy Marsala sauce to come. Step 2: Sauté Chicken In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Step 3: Make Sauce In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter has melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Pour in 1 cup of Marsala wine and 1 cup of chicken broth, stirring to combine, and allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened. Step 4: Finish Dish After the sauce has thickened, return the sautéed chicken to the skillet, ensuring it is well coated in the luscious Marsala sauce. Let everything simmer together for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This is where the magic of the Marsala Chicken Orzo truly happens! Step 5: Serve To serve, place a generous scoop of cooked orzo on each plate, laying the tender chicken on top. Drizzle the rich Marsala sauce over the chicken and orzo, making sure to include some of the sautéed garlic too. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs like thyme or rosemary, and enjoy your delightful Marsala Chicken Orzo! Variations & Substitutions for Marsala Chicken Orzo Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine by customizing this delightful dish to suit your tastes! Pasta Substitution: Experiment with different small pasta types based on availability, such as farfalle or small shells. Each variety brings its own delightful texture! Chicken Alternatives: Switch to chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option. Thighs can harmonize beautifully with the rich Marsala sauce. Gluten-Free Option: Swap orzo with a gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing taste or texture. There are fantastic alternatives available that maintain flavor. Herb Variations: Replace thyme or rosemary with fresh sage or parsley for a different aromatic profile. Each herb offers a unique twist that can brighten the dish! Vegetable Boost: Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the dish for a nutrient boost and an inviting splash of color. The earthy tones of mushrooms marry well with Marsala wine. Creamy Version: For those who want extra richness, incorporate a splash of cream or a dairy-free alternative to the sauce. This twist creates a luscious experience, making it even more comforting. Wine-Free Option: Replace wine using additional chicken broth with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for a tangy kick. This adaptation can keep all the essence without wine! Heat it Up: If you enjoy some heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy twist. A little warmth goes a long way! For more delicious ideas, check out my Garlic Chicken Thighs for another comforting favorite or try some BBQ Chicken Mac for a fun twist on a classic! Storage Tips for Marsala Chicken Orzo Fridge: Store the Marsala Chicken Orzo in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures the flavors remain intact while preventing unwanted odors from the fridge. Freezer: If you want to store it for longer, freeze the orzo and chicken separately in airtight containers for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if necessary to prevent drying out. Stir until heated through for optimal flavors. Short-Term Storage: If you have leftovers, make sure to consume them within 3 days for the best taste and quality! Expert Tips for Marsala Chicken Orzo Perfect Orzo Texture: Cook the orzo al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce. Check the package for timing! Sauté Wisely: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding chicken; this helps achieve a beautiful sear that locks in moisture and flavor. Marsala Selection: Use a good quality Marsala wine to truly enhance the sauce. Avoid cooking wine, which can have off flavors. Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and herbs; they significantly elevate the dish’s flavor profile over dried versions. Cut Chicken Evenly: Slice the chicken into even pieces for uniform cooking; this ensures tenderness and juiciness throughout the dish. Adjust Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce for your Marsala Chicken Orzo, simmer for a bit longer or mix a cornstarch slurry before adding the chicken back to the pan. Make Ahead Options These Marsala Chicken Orzo options are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the orzo and make the sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Just prepare the orzo according to package instructions and allow it to cool before refrigerating in an airtight container. For the sauce, follow the sauté process and store it separately in the fridge as well. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up if needed, then toss in the cooked chicken to warm through. Assemble over orzo just before serving, and you’ll have a delightful dinner ready in minutes, ensuring every bite is just as delicious as when first made. What to Serve with Marsala Chicken Orzo Creating a delightful meal experience is all about balance and harmony of flavors and textures. Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant, tender green adds a fresh crunch that beautifully contrasts the creamy orzo sauce while complementing the dish’s earthiness. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every drop of the rich Marsala sauce. It brings warmth and comfort to the table. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing bite to contrast the creamy textures of the Marsala Chicken Orzo, enhancing the overall dining experience. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized veggies offer nutty flavors, perfect for rounding out the meal with a delightful crunch. Tossed in olive oil, they become irresistibly delicious. Crisp White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully, balancing the richness of the dish with its bright acidity and refreshing notes. Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a light and zesty sorbet can cleanse the palate after the creamy meal, offering a refreshing finish that feels both light and satisfying. With these delightful pairings, you’re sure to create an inviting atmosphere for your cozy dinner nights! Marsala Chicken Orzo Recipe FAQs What type of Marsala wine should I use? Absolutely! Choosing a good quality Marsala wine is essential to enhance the flavor of your sauce. Look for a dry version if you prefer less sweetness. Avoid using cooking wine, which can have undesirable flavors. I often go for a bottle labeled “fine” or “superior,” which you can find at most grocery stores or wine shops. How can I store leftover Marsala Chicken Orzo? After enjoying your delicious Marsala Chicken Orzo, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents other fridge odors from seeping in. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat gently in a skillet! Can I freeze Marsala Chicken Orzo for later? Yes, you can! For best results, freeze the orzo and chicken separately in airtight containers. This way, they will maintain their texture and flavor. You can freeze them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat in a skillet, adding a bit of chicken broth to keep everything moist. What should I do if my sauce is too thin? If you find your sauce isn’t as thick as you’d like, don’t worry! Simply create a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the simmering sauce and continue to cook for a few more minutes until it thickens to your preferred consistency. What are some dietary considerations for this recipe? It’s great to think about dietary needs! If you’re serving this dish to someone with gluten intolerance, you can substitute the orzo with gluten-free pasta options available at grocery stores. Additionally, if you have friends or family that are avoiding alcohol, replace the Marsala wine with extra chicken broth and add a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity. This keeps the delightful base flavor of the dish while ensuring that everyone can enjoy it! Delicious Marsala Chicken Orzo for Cozy Dinner Nights A creamy, one-skillet dish combining tender chicken in a luscious Marsala wine sauce served over orzo pasta; perfect for weeknight dinners. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: Italian-AmericanCalories: 480 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken2 pieces Chicken Breasts boneless, skinless2 tablespoons Olive Oil for sautéingFor the Sauce1 cup Marsala Wine feel free to substitute with dry white wine and honey2 tablespoons Butter creates a velvety sauce4 cloves Garlic minced1 cup Chicken Broth low-sodium if preferred2 tablespoons Fresh Herbs Thyme or RosemaryFor the Pasta1 cup Orzo can substitute with small pasta like farfalle or fusilli Equipment Large PotLarge Skilletcolander Method Cooking StepsBegin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the orzo in a colander and set it aside.In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove the chicken and set it aside.In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in 1 cup of Marsala wine and 1 cup of chicken broth, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.After the sauce has thickened, return the sautéed chicken to the skillet, ensuring it is well coated in the sauce. Let everything simmer together for an additional 5 minutes.To serve, place a scoop of cooked orzo on each plate, laying the tender chicken on top. Drizzle the rich Marsala sauce over the chicken and orzo, garnish with freshly chopped herbs, and enjoy! Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 35gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 7mgCalcium: 3mgIron: 15mg NotesStore in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge or freeze in separate containers for up to 2 months. Reheat gently, adding broth or water if necessary to prevent drying out. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
