Description
Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Chicken and Asparagus is a delicious one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, vibrant asparagus, and orzo pasta in a rich and creamy Parmesan sauce with a hint of lemon. This comforting dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Orzo and Vegetables:
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Cook in olive oil until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
- Cook Orzo and Asparagus: Sauté garlic in butter, add orzo to toast, pour in chicken broth, and simmer. Add asparagus and cook until tender.
- Make Creamy Sauce: Stir in cream, Parmesan, lemon zest, and juice. Return chicken to the pan and heat through.
- Finish and Serve: Adjust seasoning, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- You can substitute broccoli or green beans for asparagus.
- Add a splash of broth or cream to adjust thickness if needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
