Creamy Marry Me Chicken with Risoni One-Pan Dinner

Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Mini Electric Pressure Cooker

If you want a creamy, flavorful, and easy one-pan dinner, Marry Me Chicken with Risoni should be on your menu. This popular Tuscan-inspired dish is loved for its rich, velvety sauce and bright, savory notes. It pairs juicy chicken with sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan, and tender risoni (orzo) to deliver an impressive meal without complex prep.

This recipe works well for a romantic evening, a cozy family dinner, or a satisfying solo meal. Every bite balances protein, starch, and greens—making it both comforting and satisfying. Below, you’ll find clear ingredients, step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, serving suggestions, and storage advice so you can make this one-pan favorite at home.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
• ¾ cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 cup orzo (risoni)
• 2 ¾ cups chicken broth (or water)
• ¾ cup full-fat coconut milk (or substitute heavy cream)
• 2 handfuls fresh spinach
• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Additions and Substitutions:

• Protein swap: Use shrimp, tofu, or sausage instead of chicken.
• Dairy-free: Use coconut milk and dairy-free parmesan.
• Extra vegetables: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Pasta swaps: Replace risoni with small pasta, rice, or quinoa.
• Heat: Add red pepper flakes for a touch of spice.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• Pat the chicken cubes dry with paper towels—this helps them sear nicely.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

• Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

• Add the chicken cubes and cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing a light golden crust to form. They don’t need to be fully cooked through yet.

Step 4: Add Seasonings and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

• Stir in the garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sauté 3–4 minutes until fragrant.

Step 5: Cook the Orzo (Risoni)

• Add the orzo and chicken broth, stir to combine. Reduce heat to medium, cover, and simmer about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.

Step 6: Make It Creamy

• Stir in the coconut milk (or heavy cream) and fresh spinach. Let the spinach wilt into the sauce to create a creamy texture.

Step 7: Add Parmesan

• Sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan and stir until melted and incorporated into the sauce.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

• Remove from heat and serve immediately. This dish is rich, comforting, and sure to earn compliments.

Don’t Overcook the Chicken

Searing locks in juices—avoid cooking the chicken all the way through during the sear since it will finish while the orzo cooks.

Stir the Orzo Regularly

Stirring prevents the orzo from sticking or becoming mushy and ensures even cooking.

Use Fresh Parmesan

Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly and gives a better texture and flavor than pre-grated cheese.