Description

Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Chicken and Asparagus is the ultimate comfort food dish that’s bursting with flavor and easy to make. This one-pan wonder combines tender chicken, fresh asparagus, and a dreamy, cheesy sauce for a satisfying meal the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
1/2 cup onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup orzo pasta
1 cup half-and-half
2 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a warm plate and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the asparagus and sauté for about 3 minutes, just until it starts to soften and brown slightly. Transfer the asparagus to a plate and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic and sauté for about 3 minutes, until the onion is translucent and the garlic becomes aromatic. Add more olive oil if needed.
Add the orzo to the skillet and sauté for just one minute to get it lightly toasted. Add the half-and-half and chicken broth, then stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let the orzo cook for 10 minutes.
Remove the lid and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Add the cooked asparagus back to the skillet and stir to combine. Slice the chicken into thin pieces and arrange them over the creamy orzo.
Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

If you prefer a thicker, creamier sauce, you can add a bit more Parmesan cheese or let the orzo simmer for a few extra minutes to thicken up. Conversely, if you want a looser consistency, add a splash more half-and-half or chicken broth.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 550
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 80mg