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Creamy Chicken Orzo with Meatballs

Featured in Dinner Ideas That Actually Work.

Prepare meatballs and cook till browned. Simmer orzo in a rich, cheesy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, then combine and thicken. On your table in 50 minutes.
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Clare Recipes
Updated on Sat, 15 Mar 2025 02:06:24 GMT
Creamy Chicken Orzo with Meatballs Pin it
Creamy Chicken Orzo with Meatballs | recipesclare.com

This decadent orzo dish featuring tender chicken meatballs in a rich, cheesy sauce has become a cherished family recipe. The combination of perfectly seasoned meatballs and creamy, velvety orzo creates an elegant yet comforting meal that's guaranteed to impress.

This recipe consistently outshines restaurant pasta dishes with its rich flavors and homemade touch. The combination of ingredients creates a memorable dining experience.

Key Ingredients

  • Ground chicken - Select meat with some fat content for juicy meatballs
  • Sun-dried tomatoes - Properly rehydrated for maximum flavor
  • Quality orzo - Use pasta that maintains its shape when cooked
  • Fresh herbs - Essential for bright, fresh flavor notes
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Marry Me Chicken Meatball Orzo Homemade | recipesclare.com

Preparation Method

Meatball Formation
Mix ingredients with a light touch to ensure tender results. Avoid overworking the mixture.
Flavor Foundation
Slowly caramelize onions to develop deep flavor base.
Sauce Development
Incorporate liquids gradually while stirring for silky smoothness.
Pasta Addition
Carefully fold orzo into sauce ensuring even coating.
Final Assembly
Gently incorporate meatballs into the finished dish.

This recipe's ability to create special moments in the kitchen makes it truly remarkable. The finished dish never fails to delight both novice and experienced cooks.

Creating the Perfect Sauce

The magic of this dish lies in the careful melding of three cheeses into a silky sauce that perfectly coats each piece of orzo. Patience during the cooking process allows the flavors to develop fully, creating an unforgettable taste experience.

Serving Suggestions

Complement this rich dish with crusty garlic bread and a fresh arugula salad dressed with bright lemon vinaigrette. A crisp white wine makes an excellent pairing for an elevated dining experience.

Recipe Variations

Consider substituting ground turkey, adding fresh spinach, or incorporating roasted mushrooms. Experiment with different cheese combinations or add red pepper flakes for heat.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce's silky texture. Flavors continue developing over time.

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Marry Me Chicken Meatball Orzo Recipe | recipesclare.com

Professional Tips

  • Use moistened hands when shaping meatballs
  • Reserve pasta cooking water for sauce adjustment
  • Let dish rest uncovered before serving

This signature dish has earned its place as a cherished recipe, perfect for special occasions and intimate gatherings. The combination of tender meatballs and creamy orzo creates a memorable dining experience that brings people together.

Each element works in harmony to create a dish that's both sophisticated and comforting. The careful balance of flavors and textures makes every serving special.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Where does 'Marry Me' Chicken get its name?
The idea is it’s so good, it could inspire someone to propose marriage!
→ Could I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Sure, you can! Cook them a day earlier, then warm them up in the sauce.
→ What if I want to use another pasta instead of orzo?
Go for it! Just pick a small pasta shape, but remember cooking times might differ.
→ Can I swap the types of cheese used?
Yes, feel free to use any melty cheese you like as long as the amount stays the same.
→ How do I make sure the orzo doesn’t clump together?
Give it a stir every now and then while it cooks and don’t let the pan run dry of liquid.

Chicken Orzo with Meatballs

Juicy meatballs and tender orzo mingle in a smooth cheese-loaded sauce with hints of sun-dried tomato. A dinner that's quick to impress!

Prep Time
20 Minutes
Cook Time
30 Minutes
Total Time
50 Minutes

Category: Main Dishes

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: Italian-American

Yield: 4 Servings (4 servings)

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

→ Meatballs

01 1 lb ground chicken
02 1 egg, whisked
03 Quarter cup of grated parmesan cheese (25 g)
04 1 tsp kosher salt
05 A quarter teaspoon of black pepper
06 1 tbsp finely minced garlic
07 3 tbsp whole milk
08 A tablespoon of olive oil for cooking, extra virgin
09 Quarter cup of plain breadcrumbs (27 g)
10 2 tbsp yellow onion, chopped fine
11 1 tbsp chopped-up fresh parsley

→ Pasta

12 Half a package (4 oz) of cream cheese
13 1 tsp garlic, finely minced
14 Half a cup of sun-dried tomatoes, softened and sliced
15 2 1/2 cups chicken stock (600 g)
16 Quarter tsp of black pepper
17 1 cup orzo pasta (112 g)
18 Half a cup shredded mild cheddar cheese (57 g)
19 Half a cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (57 g)
20 Half a cup grated parmesan cheese (50 g)
21 1 small onion, diced up
22 1 tbsp unsalted butter
23 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (357 g)
24 1/2 tsp kosher salt

→ Garnish

25 More sun-dried tomatoes
26 Some parsley, chopped

Instructions

Step 01

Mix together the ground chicken, egg, parmesan, herbs, and seasonings. Shape into 16 little balls using greased hands.

Step 02

In a pan, heat up olive oil and cook the meatballs until they’re browned and reach 165°F inside. It’ll take about 8 to 10 minutes. Keep them covered and set aside.

Step 03

Use the same skillet to melt butter. Sauté the onions and garlic, then pour in chicken broth while scraping those delicious browned bits from the pan.

Step 04

Toss in the sun-dried tomatoes, cream cheese, and seasonings. Stir until the cream cheese melts, then mix in the orzo and heavy cream. Bring it to a simmer.

Step 05

With the pan covered, let it gently bubble for around 12–15 minutes. Stir a few times! During the last 5 minutes, add your cheeses.

Step 06

Put the cooked meatballs back into the skillet and warm them up. Let it sit for 5 minutes to get thicker. Sprinkle parsley and add a few more tomatoes on top.

Notes

  1. If needed, fry the meatballs in batches.
  2. Stir orzo every so often so it doesn’t stick.
  3. Let the sauce rest to thicken before serving.

Tools You'll Need

  • A good skillet with a lid
  • Bowl for mixing ingredients
  • Scooper about 1 tbsp in size
  • Cups and spoons for measuring

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Includes dairy
  • Contains eggs
  • Has wheat (gluten)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 970
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Total Carbohydrate: ~
  • Protein: ~