Introduction
Welcome to a delightful culinary adventure with this comforting Marsala Chicken Orzo dish! Perfectly tender chicken thighs are seared to a golden brown, and then nestled in a luscious mix of earthy mushrooms and aromatic garlic. The star of the show, Marsala wine, adds a rich, sweet flavor that sets this one-pan meal apart. It’s a cozy, satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup Marsala wine
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper, and brown them in the skillet for about 4-5 minutes per side until they are cooked through and nicely golden. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the onions become translucent and the mushrooms are tender and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic and dried thyme to the skillet, stirring for an additional 1-2 minutes until a delightful aroma fills your kitchen.
- Pour in the Marsala wine, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze it. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Return the browned chicken to the skillet, then add the chicken broth and orzo. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Cover the skillet and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente and has absorbed most of the flavorful liquid.
- Once done, remove the skillet from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes. Stir in the chopped parsley, infusing the dish with a burst of freshness before serving.
- Serve hot, garnished generously with grated Parmesan cheese for that extra touch of comfort!
Notes or Tips
For a bit of extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat. This dish also pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a crisp green salad to round out your meal!
Cooking Techniques
When browning chicken, ensure your skillet is hot enough; this will help create that wonderful golden crust which adds depth to the dish. Deglazing with Marsala wine not only lifts those tasty bits stuck to the pan but also enhances the sauce’s complexity.
FAQ
Can I use another type of pasta?
No problem! Feel free to substitute the orzo with another pasta shape, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What kind of Marsala wine should I use?
A dry Marsala works best for cooking, but if you prefer a sweeter flavor, go for the sweet variety. Either will impart a unique richness to your dish.
Conclusion
This Marsala Chicken Orzo dish is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it not just a meal but a warm embrace on a plate. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for a special occasion. Dive into this comforting dish and savor every bite — happy cooking!