Description
This Asparagus Orzo with Chicken is a delightfully creamy dish featuring chicken, fresh asparagus, and rich Parmesan. Perfect for a quick, comforting meal!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound chicken breasts (cut into bite sized pieces)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups chopped asparagus
- 1/2 cup finely diced onion (or shallot)
- 2 cloves garlic (1 teaspoon) (grated or minced)
- 1 1/2 cups orzo
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 3 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 1/3 cup half and half (or heavy cream)
- 3 tablespoons pesto
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes, flipping halfway through, until thoroughly cooked. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil and the chopped asparagus. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes until bright green. Set aside with the chicken.
- If the skillet needs more oil, add a drizzle. Stir in the diced onion and cook for 1-2 minutes. Add the garlic, orzo, and lemon zest, stirring to combine, and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Scrape any brown bits from the pan. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 9-11 minutes until the orzo is al dente and most liquid is absorbed, stirring frequently.
- Stir in the pesto, lemon juice, half and half (or heavy cream), chicken, asparagus, and parmesan. Warm through until cheese melts, but do not boil. Adjust seasoning as needed, and serve topped with additional parmesan if desired.
Notes
For an extra touch, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Feel free to substitute vegetables like peas or spinach for added nutrition.
This dish can be made ahead of time; simply reheat before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg