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Chicken Orzo with Parmesan & Asparagus

Chicken Orzo with Parmesan & Asparagus
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A quick, flavorful, and comforting one-pan meal combining tender chicken breasts, nutty Parmesan cheese, crisp asparagus, and orzo pasta in a savory sauce, perfect for easy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts

Pasta & Grains

  • 1 cup orzo pasta

Cheese

  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Vegetables

  • 1 bunch fresh asparagus (trimmed and cut into 1–2 inch pieces)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)

Liquids & Oils

  • 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest before slicing.
  2. Cook the orzo: Reduce heat to medium in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Stir in the orzo, cover, and simmer for 8-10 minutes until tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  3. Prepare the asparagus: While the orzo cooks, trim the woody ends off the asparagus and cut into 1-2 inch pieces. Add the asparagus to the skillet during the last 3-4 minutes of cooking to steam until crisp-tender.
  4. Combine everything: Return the sliced chicken to the skillet. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Gently toss to combine all ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Serve warm: Plate the Chicken Orzo with Parmesan & Asparagus immediately. Optionally, garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs. Enjoy your cozy, flavorful meal.

Notes

  • Use room temperature chicken for even cooking and juiciness.
  • Keep an eye on the orzo to avoid overcooking; it should stay slightly al dente.
  • Add asparagus in the last few minutes of cooking to maintain a crisp texture.
  • Grate fresh Parmesan yourself for richer flavor and better melting.
  • Finish with lemon zest and juice to balance the savory richness.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken, orzo, parmesan, asparagus, quick dinner, one-pot meal, easy recipe, weeknight, comfort food

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