Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stirred the pot, the rich aroma of Marsala Chicken Orzo wafted through my kitchen, wrapping me in a warm embrace that felt like a hug from an old friend. This comforting Italian-inspired dish features succulent chicken simmered in a velvety Marsala wine sauce, all resting atop a bed of buttery orzo pasta. Not only does it offer a delightful blend of flavors, but it’s also a quick weeknight dinner solution that satisfies without the fuss of complex preparations. Plus, it’s versatile—you can easily swap out ingredients to cater to dietary preferences, such as opting for gluten-free pasta. Ready to discover how to bring a taste of cozy bistro dining into your home kitchen? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe! Why is Marsala Chicken Orzo a Must-Try? Comforting Delight: This dish wraps you in warmth, perfect for chilly evenings and busy weeknights alike. Flavor Fusion: The sweet richness of Marsala wine perfectly complements the tender chicken and creamy orzo, creating an unforgettable dining experience. Quick and Easy: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you’ll spend less time cooking and more time enjoying! Flexibility at Its Best: Customize it based on what’s in your pantry, whether you prefer chicken thighs or gluten-free pasta. Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it up for family or friends, and watch them rave about this comforting Italian-inspired meal! If you’re in the mood for other cozy options, consider our Thai Chicken Soup or delicious Garlic Butter Chicken to warm the soul even further! Marsala Chicken Orzo Ingredients For the Chicken • Chicken Breasts – Tender, boneless, and skinless for easy cooking. Substitution: Chicken thighs can be used for added juiciness. • Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing the chicken, adding healthy fats. For the Sauce • Marsala Wine – This sweet, fortified wine adds depth to the sauce’s flavor. Note: Dry white wine with a touch of honey can serve as a substitute if Marsala is unavailable. • Butter – Enhances richness and gives the sauce that velvety texture. Substitution: Olive oil can replace butter, though it may alter the richness. • Garlic – Infuses aromatic depth and robust flavor to the dish. Adjust quantity to taste for your ideal garlic flavor. • Chicken Broth – Complements and enhances the savory profile of the sauce. For the Pasta • Orzo – A delightful, small, rice-like pasta that soaks up the sauce beautifully. Substitution: Small pasta like farfalle or fusilli can be used if desired. For Garnishing • Fresh Herbs (Thyme or Rosemary) – Adds a burst of freshness and flavor to elevate the dish. Substitution: Sage or parsley can create different flavor profiles. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Marsala Chicken Orzo Step 1: Cook the Orzo In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add orzo and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8–10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the orzo and set it aside, ensuring not to rinse it, so it retains its starch that will help absorb the delicious Marsala sauce later. Step 2: Cook the Chicken Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then carefully add them to the hot oil. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden and no longer pink in the center, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Step 3: Make the Sauce In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter along with minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic. Pour in 1 cup of Marsala wine and 1 cup of chicken broth. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly and develops a rich flavor, stirring occasionally. Step 4: Finish the Dish Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the Marsala sauce over the top. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce. If the sauce thickens too much, you can add a splash of broth to achieve your desired consistency. Step 5: Serve On a plate, create a bed of your cooked orzo, then carefully place the chicken on top. Drizzle the luxurious Marsala sauce over the chicken and orzo, and garnish with fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary. This Marsala Chicken Orzo is ready to be enjoyed, offering a cozy, flavorful dining experience. Make Ahead Options These Marsala Chicken Orzo is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the chicken and sauce up to 3 days in advance; simply cook the chicken, make the sauce, and store them together in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, keep the orzo separate until you’re ready to serve—this prevents it from becoming mushy. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting dish, simply reheat the chicken and sauce on the stovetop and cook the orzo according to package instructions (about 8–10 minutes). With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to warm your family in no time! Marsala Chicken Orzo Variations & Substitutions Feel free to unleash your culinary creativity and adapt this dish to suit your taste and dietary preferences! Gluten-Free Option: Substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta to enjoy the same flavors without the gluten. Add Greens: Toss in fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for a nutrient boost and vibrant color. Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs like sage or parsley for a unique twist on the classic flavors. Creamy Addition: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for an ultra-rich sauce that elevates the dish further. Veggie Boost: Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers into the sauce for extra texture and flavor, making it even heartier. Customize the Sauce: If you love a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick to the Marsala sauce. Chicken Thighs: For added juiciness, swap chicken breasts for thighs, offering a more succulent texture that pairs beautifully with the sauce. Cheese Lovers Delight: Top your serving with freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano for a savory finish that complements the dish perfectly. Feel inspired? If you’re looking for more satisfying meals, don’t miss our Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders or explore our delicious take on Korean Chicken Bao! Tips for the Best Marsala Chicken Orzo Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for juicy, tender meat that enhances your Marsala Chicken Orzo. Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allow the Marsala wine and chicken broth to simmer properly. A little patience goes a long way in developing deep, rich flavors! Use Starchy Orzo: Don’t rinse the orzo after cooking; the starch helps thicken and cling to the sauce, making each bite of your Marsala Chicken Orzo more flavorful. Watch the Garlic: Sauté the garlic just until fragrant to avoid bitterness. Remember, it’s meant to give a warm depth to the dish without overpowering. Store Separately: To keep your orzo from getting mushy, store it separately from the sauce and chicken if preparing in advance! Storage Tips for Marsala Chicken Orzo Fridge: Store leftover Marsala Chicken Orzo in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its flavor and freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the orzo in airtight containers for up to 3 months. This helps prevent mushiness. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Cook orzo separately if necessary. Avoiding Texture Loss: To keep your Marsala Chicken Orzo at its best, always combine the orzo with the sauce just before serving to prevent it from becoming too soft. What to Serve with Marsala Chicken Orzo Enhance your dining experience with delightful sides that complement the rich flavors of this comforting dish. Garlic Bread: This buttery, crusty favorite is perfect for soaking up the delicious Marsala sauce, adding a satisfying crunch to your meal. Each bite of bread alongside the creamy orzo creates a textural contrast that’s simply irresistible. Simple Green Salad: Crisp greens with a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing balance to the rich chicken and orzo. Incorporating cherry tomatoes and cucumbers adds vibrant colors and flavors that brighten the entire meal. Steamed Broccoli: Tender steamed broccoli offers a lovely pop of color and a nutritional boost. Its mild flavor and firm texture harmonize beautifully with the velvety sauce, adding just the right amount of freshness. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots roasted to perfection brings out their natural sweetness. The caramelized edges contrast nicely with the creamy orzo, unfolding layers of flavor with every bite. Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir, complements the earthy notes of the Marsala wine sauce. Sip between bites and let the flavors intertwine, making your meal feel even more sophisticated. Tiramisu: For dessert, indulge in a classic Italian tiramisu. Its rich coffee flavor and creamy texture provide a delightful end to your meal, echoing the comforting essence of Marsala Chicken Orzo. The lightness of the dessert rounds off the evening beautifully. Parmesan Crisps: These crispy cheese bites serve as a fun, salty snack. Their thin, crunchy texture contrasts with the creaminess of the orzo, and they can be served alongside or nibbled on as a pre-meal treat. Caesar Salad: With its creamy dressing and savory anchovies, Caesar salad adds a classic touch. The crunch of the romaine paired with crunchy croutons beautifully complements the smooth and sumptuous chicken orzo. Marsala Chicken Orzo Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right chicken for my Marsala Chicken Orzo? Absolutely! Go for boneless, skinless chicken breasts—they cook quickly and stay moist. If you prefer juiciness, chicken thighs are a fabulous alternative. Just make sure the meat is fresh, without any dark spots or unpleasant odors. What’s the best way to store leftover Marsala Chicken Orzo? For short-term storage, place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll keep for up to 3 days. If you’re planning to keep it longer, store the chicken and sauce separately from the orzo in the freezer for up to 3 months. This helps to maintain the texture! Can I freeze Marsala Chicken Orzo? If so, how? Yes, you can! To freeze, portion out the chicken and sauce into airtight containers, and do the same for the cooked orzo in a separate container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the chicken and sauce overnight in the refrigerator, and then reheat in a skillet until warmed through. Cook the orzo fresh if needed! What if my sauce is too thin? Very good question! If your sauce turns out thinner than you’d like, simply simmer it a bit longer over medium heat. This will help evaporate some moisture and thicken the sauce naturally. If you’re in a pinch, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it in slowly until your desired thickness is achieved. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Yes! This dish can easily be made gluten-free by substituting orzo with a gluten-free pasta variety. Just be sure to check all other ingredients, like broth and wine, for gluten content. Always note any allergies specific to your family or guests when cooking. How can I adjust the flavor profile if I don’t have Marsala wine? Not a problem! If Marsala isn’t available, you can substitute it with a dry white wine mixed with a touch of honey or maple syrup for sweetness. Alternatively, a bit of balsamic vinegar can bring a different but enjoyable flavor profile to your sauce. Adjust to taste and enjoy the creative process! Marsala Chicken Orzo: Comfort Food That Heals the Soul A quick and comforting Marsala Chicken Orzo recipe that's perfect for busy weeknights, blending succulent chicken, creamy orzo, and rich Marsala wine sauce. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken2 pieces Chicken Breasts Boneless and skinless2 tablespoons Olive Oil For sautéingFor the Sauce1 cup Marsala Wine Sweet fortified wine2 tablespoons Butter Can substitute with olive oil3 cloves Garlic Minced, adjust to taste1 cup Chicken Broth Enhances the sauceFor the Pasta1 cup Orzo Small rice-like pastaFor Garnishing1 tablespoon Fresh Herbs (Thyme or Rosemary) Can substitute with sage or parsley Equipment large potLarge skilletmeasuring cupsmeasuring spoonscutting boardSharp Knife Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add orzo and cook according to package instructions, about 8–10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and add them to the hot oil. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through.In the same skillet, lower heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter along with minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in Marsala wine and chicken broth. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over it. Simmer for another 5 minutes. Add broth if the sauce thickens too much.On a plate, create a bed of orzo, place chicken on top, drizzle with Marsala sauce, and garnish with fresh herbs. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 3mg NotesFor best results, avoid rinsing the orzo after cooking to retain starch. Store orzo separately from the sauce if preparing in advance to avoid mushiness. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
