Irresistible Marry Me Chicken Meatball Orzo Casserole

Looking for a dish that will make hearts skip a beat? Look no further than my beloved Marry Me Chicken Meatball Orzo recipe. This dish has a magical way of turning any ordinary evening into a special occasion. Picture this: tender chicken meatballs nestled in a creamy, cheesy orzo sauce that’s both elegant and comforting, just perfect for those cozy nights when you want to add a touch of romance to your dinner table.

The story behind this recipe is as heartwarming as the dish itself. Inspired by a chilly evening and a proposal right after the first bite, this Marry Me Chicken Meatball Orzo has since become a go-to date night favorite for many. From creating restaurant-worthy vibes at home to teaching the next generation the art of cooking, this recipe has a way of bringing people together over a shared love for good food and great company. So, whether you’re looking to impress a special someone or simply treat yourself to something truly delicious, this dish promises to deliver a memorable dining experience that will have everyone coming back for more.

Quick Benefits

• Indulgent Comfort Food: Perfect for cozy nights in or special occasions, the creamy, cheesy orzo with tender chicken meatballs is a comforting and indulgent dish that satisfies cravings.
• Versatile and Customizable: Easily adaptable to personal preferences, this dish can be customized with ingredient swaps like turkey for chicken, added veggies like spinach, or different cheese blends for a variety of flavors.
• Aromatic and Inviting: The kitchen fills with a magnetic aroma as the dish cooks, drawing people in with the promise of a flavorful and silky textured sauce that coats each piece of orzo perfectly.
• Shared Joy: More than just a meal, this recipe has the power to create special moments and connections, whether it’s a romantic date night, a family dinner, or teaching a loved one how to make it.

Why You’ll Love This Irresistible Marry Me Chicken Meatball Orzo Casserole Recipe

• Indulgent Comfort: The combination of tender chicken meatballs in a creamy, cheesy orzo creates a dish that is both comforting and special, perfect for cozy nights in.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Loved ones can’t resist the allure of the aromatic kitchen and the silky, flavorful sauce that coats each piece of orzo perfectly.
• Versatile: You can customize the recipe by swapping chicken for turkey, adding spinach for color and nutrition, or experimenting with different cheese blends or spice levels.
• Homemade Restaurant Vibes: With a side of garlic bread and arugula salad, paired with a crisp white wine and dimmed lights, you can create a fine dining experience in the comfort of your home.
• Memorable Moments: This dish has become a go-to for date nights, teaching moments, and family gatherings, creating lasting memories through shared enjoyment.
• Flavor Development: Patiently following the recipe ensures that each layer of flavor shines through, making it worth the effort for a truly special meal.
• Leftover Love: The dish gets even more flavorful the next day, and with proper reheating, you can savor the silky sauce and rich meatballs all over again.

Ingredients for Irresistible Marry Me Chicken Meatball Orzo Casserole

Meatballs

• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3 tablespoons whole milk
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped yellow onion
• ¼ cup plain breadcrumbs (27g)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, for frying
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese (25g)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Pasta

• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• ½ cup shredded mild cheddar cheese (57g)
• 2½ cups chicken broth (600g)
• ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (57g)
• 1 cup orzo pasta (112g)
• 1½ cups heavy whipping cream (357g)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• ½ package (4 oz) cream cheese
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese (50g)
• ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, softened
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Garnish

• Additional sun-dried tomatoes
• Chopped parsley

How to Make Irresistible Marry Me Chicken Meatball Orzo Casserole

Step 1: Make Meatballs

Mix ground chicken, egg, cheese, herbs, and seasonings. Shape the mixture into 16 meatballs using greased hands.

Step 2: Cook Meatballs

Cook meatballs in olive oil until internal temperature reaches 165°F, for approximately 8-10 minutes. Cover and set aside.

Step 3: Start Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté onions and garlic until softened. Add broth and stir to deglaze the pan.

Step 4: Build Sauce

Combine tomatoes, cream cheese, and seasonings in a pot. Cook until cream cheese is melted. Stir in orzo and cream, then bring to a simmer.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

Simmer covered for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add cheeses during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Step 6: Finish

Add the meatballs back to the skillet and heat them through. Let them rest for 5 minutes to thicken. Serve garnished with parsley and tomatoes.

Storage Tips

Once you’ve made the Marry Me Chicken Meatball Orzo and enjoyed a satisfying meal, it’s essential to store any leftovers correctly to maintain their freshness and flavor. To store the finished dish, transfer it into an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. The Marry Me Chicken Meatball Orzo can be stored in the fridge for up to three days.

When reheating the dish, you can revitalize the creamy sauce by adding a splash of cream or chicken broth while gently heating it on the stovetop. This will help bring back the silky texture of the sauce and maintain the overall deliciousness of the dish. Interestingly, the meatballs tend to develop even more flavor after a day or two, making leftovers equally enjoyable. By following these storage and reheating tips, you can savor the Marry Me Chicken Meatball Orzo for another delicious meal without losing its charm and taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter option, you can substitute ground turkey for the ground chicken in the meatballs. Turkey is a leaner meat and will still provide a delicious flavor to the dish. You can also add some chopped spinach to the sauce for added color and nutrition. The spinach will wilt into the creamy sauce beautifully and add a fresh element to the dish.

If you want to change up the cheese blend, feel free to use different cheeses based on what you have on hand. Consider using a mix of mozzarella, provolone, or even Gouda for a unique twist on the recipe. Experimenting with different cheese combinations can add depth of flavor and create a new experience each time you make this dish. Additionally, if you prefer a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce to give it a spicy kick. The red pepper flakes will add a subtle heat that complements the creamy sauce and meatballs wonderfully.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Marry Me Chicken Meatball Orzo in individual mini-skillets for a charming and rustic presentation. Top each skillet with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a few additional sun-dried tomatoes for a pop of color and flavor. Pair it with a glass of your favorite white wine and some candlelight for a cozy and romantic dinner at home.

For a fun twist, try serving the Marry Me Chicken Meatball Orzo in small hollowed-out bread bowls. Simply carve out the center of a round bread loaf, leaving a thick bread shell. Fill each bread bowl with the creamy orzo and chicken meatballs, allowing the sauce to soak into the bread for an extra burst of flavor. This creative presentation adds a playful touch to the dish and makes for a memorable dining experience.

FAQs for Irresistible Marry Me Chicken Meatball Orzo Casserole

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken for the meatballs?

Yes, you can definitely use ground turkey instead of ground chicken to make the meatballs. It will alter the flavor slightly but still work well with the creamy orzo sauce.

Can I substitute any of the cheeses in the recipe?

Feel free to substitute the cheeses with ones you prefer or have on hand. Different cheeses will give the sauce a unique flavor profile, so don’t be afraid to experiment based on your taste preferences.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat to the dish, you can sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes into the sauce while cooking. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance to give the dish a little kick.

Can I freeze this dish for later?

It is not recommended to freeze this dish as the creamy sauce may separate upon reheating. However, you can store any leftovers in the fridge for up to three days and reheat them on the stovetop with a splash of cream or chicken broth to revive the sauce’s texture.

Conclusion

As you embark on your culinary journey with Marry Me Chicken Meatball Orzo, remember that the joy of cooking lies not just in the flavors and textures you create, but in the moments you share around the table. This dish has a way of bringing people together, turning an ordinary meal into a special occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a loved one or simply treating yourself to a comforting dinner, let the magic of this creamy, cheesy orzo dish warm your soul and fill your heart.

So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to experience the delicious allure of Marry Me Chicken Meatball Orzo. Embrace the process, savor the aromas wafting through your kitchen, and revel in the satisfaction of creating something truly extraordinary. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out on your culinary adventures, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your repertoire, adding a touch of elegance and warmth to your dining table. Cheers to good food, good company, and the simple pleasures that make life so sweet.

Irresistible Marry Me Chicken Meatball Orzo Casserole

Indulgent and comforting, Marry Me Chicken Meatball Orzo is a creamy, cheesy dish of tender chicken meatballs and silky orzo that elevates any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time20 Minutes

Cook Time30 Minutes

Total Time50 Minutes

CuisineItalian-American

Skill LevelEasy

Servings4 Servings (4 servings)

Ingredients

Meatballs

• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3 tablespoons whole milk
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped yellow onion
• ¼ cup plain breadcrumbs (27g)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, for frying
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese (25g)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Pasta

• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• ½ cup shredded mild cheddar cheese (57g)
• 2½ cups chicken broth (600g)
• ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (57g)
• 1 cup orzo pasta (112g)
• 1½ cups heavy whipping cream (357g)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• ½ package (4 oz) cream cheese
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese (50g)
• ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, softened
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Garnish

• Additional sun-dried tomatoes
• Chopped parsley

Instructions

1. Make Meatballs: Mix ground chicken, egg, cheese, herbs, and seasonings. Shape the mixture into 16 meatballs using greased hands.
2. Cook Meatballs: Cook meatballs in olive oil until internal temperature reaches 165°F, for approximately 8-10 minutes. Cover and set aside.
3. Start Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté onions and garlic until softened. Add broth and stir to deglaze the pan.
4. Build Sauce: Combine tomatoes, cream cheese, and seasonings in a pot. Cook until cream cheese is melted. Stir in orzo and cream, then bring to a simmer.
5. Cook Pasta: Simmer covered for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add cheeses during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
6. Finish: Add the meatballs back to the skillet and heat them through. Let them rest for 5 minutes to thicken. Serve garnished with parsley and tomatoes.