Chicken Marsala Orzo is a fun twist on a classic! Juicy chicken cooked in a savory Marsala wine sauce pairs perfectly with creamy orzo pasta for a delightful dish that warms the heart.
I love how easy it is to whip up on a busy weeknight. Plus, who can resist that rich flavor? It feels fancy but is super simple. Your family will think you’re a gourmet chef! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish because they cook quickly and stay tender. If you want a different flavor, try using chicken thighs instead for a juicier bite!
Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms offer a deeper flavor. Button mushrooms are milder and can work too. If you want to switch it up, try adding shiitake or portobello mushrooms for a unique taste!
Orzo: This tiny pasta adds a great texture. If you don’t have orzo, you could substitute with rice or other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even quinoa for a different twist.
Marsala Wine: Marsala gives the dish its signature flavor. If you don’t have it, a mix of sweet red wine and a splash of vinegar can work in a pinch. Just adjust the sweetness to your taste!
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. If you’re out, basil or cilantro can be fun alternatives that bring a different flavor profile!
How Do I Sauté Chicken Perfectly?
Getting that golden-brown sear on chicken is crucial for flavor. First, let the chicken come to room temperature; this helps with even cooking. Make sure the skillet and oil are hot before adding the chicken—it should sizzle right away!
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper right before cooking.
- Cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the skillet; this keeps the heat consistent.
- Allow the chicken to brown without stirring too much—let it sit for about 5 minutes for a nice sear.
Once cooked, let it rest on a plate for a minute before adding it back to the dish later. This simple step keeps it juicy!
How to Make Chicken Marsala Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (such as cremini or button)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup Marsala wine
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp butter (optional, for a richer sauce)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Marsala Orzo recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy meal that you can whip up any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
First, season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper. This adds flavor to the chicken so that it tastes delicious when cooked!
2. Sauté the Chicken:
In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and fully cooked. When it’s done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and chopped onion. Sauté them together for about 5 minutes until the onions become translucent and the mushrooms are nicely browned. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until you can smell the garlic’s delicious aroma.
4. Add the Orzo:
Now it’s time to add the orzo pasta. Stir it in and cook for about 1 minute, allowing it to toast slightly. This will help bring out its flavor!
5. Combine Liquid Ingredients:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and Marsala wine. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the orzo to be tender and to absorb most of the liquid.
6. Put it All Together:
Once the orzo is cooked, add the chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine everything. If you want a richer sauce, feel free to add the butter at this stage. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste.
7. Finish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve the Chicken Marsala Orzo warm and sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top if you like. Enjoy this lovely meal with family or friends!
Can I Substitute the Marsala Wine?
Absolutely! If you don’t have Marsala wine, you can use dry sherry or even a combination of chicken broth and a splash of balsamic vinegar as a substitute. This will create a similar depth of flavor but might be slightly different in sweetness.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Can I Make This with Whole Wheat Orzo?
Yes, whole wheat orzo will work just fine in this recipe! Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may take a couple of minutes longer to reach the right tenderness compared to regular orzo.
What Should I Serve with Chicken Marsala Orzo?
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce!
