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Chicken Orzo with Parmesan & Asparagus

Chicken Orzo with Parmesan & Asparagus
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A quick and vibrant Chicken Orzo with Parmesan & Asparagus recipe combining tender chicken, crisp asparagus, creamy Parmesan, and delicate orzo pasta. Ready in under 30 minutes, this one-pan dish offers balanced flavors, easy cleanup, and nutritious ingredients, perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein & Pasta

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup orzo pasta

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 bunch fresh asparagus, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

Dairy & Flavorings

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Liquids & Oils

  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet, let rest, then slice into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Sauté Garlic and Asparagus: In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add chopped asparagus and sauté for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
  3. Cook the Orzo: Pour the orzo into the skillet with garlic and asparagus, stirring to coat it in the oil and flavors. Add chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and broth mostly absorbed.
  4. Combine and Finish: Return sliced chicken to the skillet. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until heated through and creamy. Season with additional salt and pepper as needed.

Notes

  • Use fresh asparagus: For best crunch and flavor, avoid frozen asparagus.
  • Don’t overcook the orzo: Monitor texture to prevent mushiness.
  • Room temperature chicken: Let chicken rest before slicing to retain juices.
  • Grate your own Parmesan: Freshly grated cheese melts and tastes better.
  • Keep broth handy: Add a splash when reheating to maintain creaminess.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken orzo, asparagus pasta, Parmesan chicken, quick dinner, one-pan meal, weeknight recipe, creamy orzo

Find it online: https://homemademealz.com/chicken-orzo-with-parmesan-asparagus/