Creamy Marsala Chicken Orzo Recipe
Introduction
Marsala Chicken Orzo is a comforting one-pan meal featuring tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and flavorful orzo pasta simmered in rich Marsala wine and chicken broth. This dish combines simple ingredients into a satisfying and elegant dinner perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup Marsala wine
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken slices with salt and pepper, then cook until golden and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 4 minutes.
- Step 3: Add the orzo pasta to the mushrooms, stirring for 1 minute to toast lightly.
- Step 4: Pour in the Marsala wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits. Let it simmer until reduced by half, about 2 minutes.
- Step 5: Add the chicken broth and stir to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Step 6: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Cover and cook on low heat until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, about 10–12 minutes.
- Step 7: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- Substitute cremini or button mushrooms with shiitake or portobello for a deeper flavor.
- Add a handful of fresh spinach or peas in the last few minutes of cooking for extra color and nutrition.
- Use dry white wine instead of Marsala if it’s not available, though the flavor will be less rich.
- For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or grated Parmesan before serving.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of chicken broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and offer more richness. Adjust cooking time to ensure the thighs are cooked through.
What if I don’t have Marsala wine?
You can substitute with dry white wine or a mixture of grape juice and a splash of brandy for a non-alcoholic option. The flavor will be less authentic but still tasty.
PrintCreamy Marsala Chicken Orzo Recipe
Marsala Chicken Orzo is a comforting and flavorful one-pot dish featuring tender chicken and mushrooms simmered with orzo pasta in a rich Marsala wine and chicken broth sauce. This easy stovetop recipe combines savory and slightly sweet notes, making it a perfect weeknight meal that comes together quickly and satisfies hearty cravings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Chicken and Mushrooms
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (preferably cremini or button mushrooms)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Orzo and Liquid
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 3/4 cup Marsala wine
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken and Mushrooms: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper and cook until they are browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside. In the same pan, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add Orzo, Wine, and Broth: Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the mushrooms. Stir in the orzo pasta, then pour in the Marsala wine and chicken broth. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer Until Tender: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed before serving.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier texture.
- You can substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to make it pescatarian-friendly.
- For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or grated Parmesan cheese just before serving.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can be added at the end for extra flavor.
Keywords: Marsala Chicken Orzo, Chicken recipes, One pot meals, Italian pasta recipes, Mushroom recipes
