Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe other day, while indulging in my favorite cozy corner of the kitchen, I realized that a truly comforting meal is like a warm hug on a chilly evening. That’s exactly what Marsala Chicken Orzo brings to the table! This delightful dish features succulent chicken simmered in a rich Marsala wine sauce, served over perfectly al dente orzo. It’s a simple yet elegant creation that captures the heart of Italian-American comfort food. Not only is it a stellar option for busy weeknights, but it also has an air of sophistication for when you want to impress guests. Plus, the creamy sauce and tender chicken make every bite a joy. Are you ready to uncover the magic of this easy-to-make dish? Let’s dive in and create some culinary comfort together! Why is Marsala Chicken Orzo a Must-Try? Incredible Flavor: The luscious Marsala wine sauce elevates the dish with rich, sweet notes that make every bite unforgettable. Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, this dish can be ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Versatile Options: Feel free to customize it! Swap in gluten-free pasta or even toss in some spinach for extra nutrition. Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your guests with this delightful comfort food that’s elegant enough for a formal dinner yet inviting for family meals. Want to explore more comforting options? Check out my Butter Chicken Comfort recipe for another favorite! Perfect Pairing: This dish goes wonderfully with a simple green salad or crusty bread, ensuring a complete dining experience. Marsala Chicken Orzo Ingredients For the Chicken • Chicken Breasts – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts ensure easy cooking and soak up flavors well. For the Sauce • Marsala Wine – Adds a rich, sweet depth to the sauce; consider using dry white wine with honey as a substitute if unavailable. • Butter – Contributes to sauce richness and creaminess; can substitute with olive oil for a lighter option. • Garlic – Provides an aromatic base; fresh garlic is preferable for maximum flavor. • Chicken Broth – Enhances the savory flavor of the sauce; use low-sodium for a healthier option. For the Pasta • Orzo – Small pasta that absorbs the sauce beautifully; can swap for small shapes like farfalle or fusilli. For Garnishing • Fresh Herbs – Thyme or rosemary brings fragrant notes; alternatively, sage or parsley can be used. • Olive Oil – Used for sautéing chicken; extra-virgin is recommended for the best flavor. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Marsala Chicken Orzo Step 1: Cook the Orzo Begin by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the orzo and cook according to package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the orzo and set it aside while you prepare the chicken. Step 2: Cook the Chicken In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. While it’s heating, season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and sear for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest. Step 3: Make the Sauce In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not brown. Next, pour in 1 cup of Marsala wine and 1 cup of chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes, letting it reduce and thicken slightly. Step 4: Finish the Dish Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the rich sauce over the top. Cover and simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up the flavors of the Marsala sauce. This will also help bring the dish together, enhancing the overall taste of your Marsala Chicken Orzo. Step 5: Serve To serve, spoon a generous helping of orzo onto plates or into bowls, topping them with the succulent chicken and Marsala sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs like thyme or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. This comforting dish is now ready to be enjoyed with family or friends! Marsala Chicken Orzo Variations Feel free to get creative and personalize your Marsala Chicken Orzo experience with these delightful variations! Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option. Their slightly richer taste will deepen your dish’s character. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta instead of orzo to accommodate dietary preferences without sacrificing taste. There are many great gluten-free pasta options available! Add Spinach: Toss in fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for a vibrant color boost and extra nutrition. It’ll melt beautifully into the sauce, adding a fresh touch. Balsamic Revolution: Replace Marsala wine with balsamic vinegar and chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version. It adds a lovely acidity, balancing the richness of the sauce. Mushroom Medley: Include sliced mushrooms in the sauce for added texture and earthy flavor. Just sauté them with the garlic for an aromatic, hearty twist! Herb Variance: Switch fresh herbs based on your mood! Try sage for a deeper, warming flavor or parsley for a fresh touch. Experimenting can lead to delightful surprises! Creamy Indulgence: For a richer sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream just before serving to bring additional creaminess that perfectly complements the chicken. Heat It Up: If you enjoy a bit of spice, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce while it simmers. It elevates the dish with a warm, spicy kick! Looking for more comforting dishes? Check out my Butter Chicken Comfort recipe or savor the taste of my Cowboy Butter Chicken for a delightful twist! What to Serve with Marsala Chicken Orzo Set the stage for a comforting, delicious meal with vibrant sides that complement every bite of your rich and savory Marsala Chicken Orzo. Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted with butter and garlic, this classic side dish is ideal for soaking up every drop of that luscious Marsala sauce. Simple Green Salad: A fresh mix of greens tossed in a light vinaigrette adds a lovely contrast to the creamy orzo, keeping the meal balanced. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their nutty flavor and crispy texture create an appetizing addition that pairs beautifully with the richness of the chicken. Sautéed Spinach: Quick-cooked with a touch of garlic, this vibrant green side adds nutrition and a pop of color to your dinner plate. Creamy Coleslaw: The chilled crunch of coleslaw offers a delightful textural contrast, while its slight sweetness complements the savory notes of the dish. Light Pinot Noir: A chilled glass of this fruity wine harmonizes with the rich flavors of the Marsala sauce, enhancing your dining experience. Lemon Sorbet: For a refreshing end, a scoop of this tangy dessert cleanses the palate after the rich Marsala Chicken Orzo, leaving you satisfied. Expert Tips for Marsala Chicken Orzo Perfect Chicken Sear: Ensure chicken is golden brown before removing it to maximize flavor. A hot skillet is key; the chicken should sizzle when added. Thickening Sauce: If you desire a thicker Marsala sauce, simmer it longer or add a cornstarch slurry slowly while stirring to reach your desired consistency. Creamy Finish: For a touch of indulgence, consider adding a splash of heavy cream just before serving to elevate the creamy richness of the sauce. Orzo Tips: Cook orzo separately to prevent it from becoming mushy and to control its cooking time, ensuring it stays perfectly al dente. Make Ahead Options These Marsala Chicken Orzo are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline meal prep! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken up to 3 days in advance. Simply follow the cooking instructions, allowing the sauce to cool before refrigerating it in an airtight container. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium heat while cooking the orzo according to package directions (it takes about 8-10 minutes). This way, you’ll have a delightful, restaurant-quality meal on the table in no time, ready to impress your family or guests with minimal effort. Don’t worry, the flavors will remain just as delicious! How to Store and Freeze Marsala Chicken Orzo Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Freezer: While the chicken texture may change, the sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Reheating: Thaw the sauce overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove. If you froze the chicken, add it during the last few minutes so it warms through without overcooking. Make-Ahead: Consider preparing the sauce and chicken in advance, then store in the fridge until ready to serve. Reheat and toss with freshly cooked orzo for a delicious meal! Marsala Chicken Orzo Recipe FAQs What type of Marsala wine should I use for the sauce? I recommend using a sweet Marsala wine as it adds the best depth to the sauce. If you don’t have that on hand, a dry white wine mixed with a bit of honey can be a great substitute! How should I store leftovers of Marsala Chicken Orzo? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to keep the dish moist, as orzo can absorb moisture over time. Can I freeze Marsala Chicken Orzo? While I don’t recommend freezing the entire dish due to potential texture changes in the chicken, the Marsala sauce freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. What’s the best way to cook orzo to avoid it becoming mushy? To achieve perfectly cooked orzo, make sure to follow package instructions closely and stir occasionally while cooking. It can be helpful to cook orzo separately from the sauce to prevent it from absorbing too much liquid and becoming overly soft. Does this recipe accommodate dietary restrictions like gluten-free diets? Absolutely! You can easily swap the orzo for gluten-free pasta shapes. Additionally, check the Marsala wine to ensure it meets any dietary preferences, or use a balsamic vinegar and broth mix for a non-alcoholic version. Savor the Comfort of Marsala Chicken Orzo Tonight Marsala Chicken Orzo is a comforting dish featuring succulent chicken in a rich sauce, served over orzo, perfect for busy weeknights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: Italian-AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken2 pieces Boneless, skinless chicken breastsFor the Sauce1 cup Marsala wine Consider using dry white wine with honey as a substitute.2 tablespoons Butter Can substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.2 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is preferable for maximum flavor.1 cup Chicken broth Use low-sodium for a healthier option.For the Pasta1 cup Orzo Can swap for small shapes like farfalle or fusilli.For Garnishing2 tablespoons Fresh herbs (thyme or rosemary) Alternatives include sage or parsley.2 tablespoons Olive oil Extra-virgin is recommended. Equipment Large skilletpotMeasuring CupsMeasuring Spoons Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Marsala Chicken OrzoBegin by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the orzo and cook according to package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the orzo and set it aside while you prepare the chicken.In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and sear for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest.In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not brown. Pour in 1 cup of Marsala wine and 1 cup of chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes, letting it reduce and thicken slightly.Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Cover and simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up the flavors of the Marsala sauce.To serve, spoon a generous helping of orzo onto plates or into bowls, topping them with the chicken and Marsala sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs like thyme or parsley. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 3mgIron: 10mg NotesStore any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
