If you’re looking for a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and quick to whip up, the Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Chicken and Asparagus is your go-to. It’s a delightful combination of savory chicken, tender asparagus, and a luscious parmesan sauce that clings tenderly to each orzo grain.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
- Decadently Creamy: The combination of orzo and half-and-half creates a creamy texture that’s utterly irresistible.
- Flavor Magic: With a touch of garlic and paprika, every bite is an adventure in flavor.
- Versatile Ingredients: The basic recipe can be tailored with your favorite veggies or proteins.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The joy of this dish lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient brings something unique, from the bright flavor of asparagus to the savory depth of parmesan. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why each is essential:
- Chicken Breast: Provides a lean protein that soaks up flavors beautifully.
- Orzo: This small pasta absorbs the creamy sauce perfectly, ensuring every mouthful is luscious.
- Asparagus: Adds a fresh, green crunch and wonderfully complements the richness of the orzo.
- Parmesan Cheese: Essential for that nutty, salty finish that elevates the dish.
- Half and Half: Offers the perfect creamy texture without being too heavy.
Variations
This Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Chicken and Asparagus is a canvas for culinary creativity. Here are some ways you can tweak the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs:
- Veggie Swap: Feel free to replace asparagus with broccoli, spinach, or peas for a different nutritional profile.
- Protein Options: Not a fan of chicken? Try shrimp or tofu for an exciting twist.
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Chicken and Asparagus
Step 1: Season & Sear the Chicken
Begin by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for about five minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. This searing locks in the juices and adds a fantastic depth of flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the chopped asparagus and sauté for about three minutes until they start to brown. The slight caramelization brings out their natural sweetness. Set them aside and continue with your onions and garlic for more aromatic depth.
Pro Tips for Making Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Chicken and Asparagus
- Chicken Perfection: Use a thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F internally for the juiciest results.
- Orzo Toasting: Briefly toast orzo before adding liquids to enhance its nutty flavor.
- Cheese Melting: Stir Parmesan gradually to prevent clumping and to achieve a silky consistency.
- Season Smart: Taste as you go along, adjusting seasonings toward the end to suit your palate.
How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Chicken and Asparagus
Garnishes
Top your dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and some additional shaved parmesan for an extra burst of flavor and a pop of color.
Side Dishes
This creamy delight pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad or garlic bread to mop up any sauce left on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this in a wide, shallow bowl to showcase the creamy orzo and beautifully seared chicken breast slices, or even in individual ramekins for a more elegant touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, maintaining the dish’s freshness.
Freezing
For freezing, pack in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or half-and-half to restore its creamy texture.
FAQs
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Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely! Romano or Asiago cheese can be great options that bring a unique flavor twist.
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What if I don’t have half-and-half?
You can substitute it with equal parts whole milk and heavy cream or just use milk for a lighter version.
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How can I make this gluten-free?
Swap out the orzo for a gluten-free pasta or rice option and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
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Is this dish mild or spicy?
This dish carries a mild flavor profile but you can bump up the spice by adding red pepper flakes during cooking.
Final Thoughts
Dive into the deliciousness of Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Chicken and Asparagus. It’s a dish that effortlessly combines comfort with elegance, perfect for any occasion. I’m thrilled for you to try it and enjoy its comforting embrace!
Print
Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Chicken and Asparagus Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Description
Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Chicken and Asparagus is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, crunchy asparagus, and toasted orzo in a rich, creamy sauce infused with Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive casual lunch, this recipe is easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 pound chicken breast boneless and skinless (about 3 breasts)
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper or to taste
- 1 tablespoon paprika
Vegetables
- 1 cup asparagus chopped
- 1 large onion chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced
Grains & Broth
- 2 cups uncooked orzo
- 2 cups half and half
- 3 cups chicken broth low sodium, or water
Dairy & Herbs
- 1 1/2 cups Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 tablespoon parsley chopped, for garnish
Cooking Oil
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Coat the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides to enhance flavor.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a warm plate and set aside.
- Sauté the asparagus: In the same skillet, add the chopped asparagus and cook for about 3 minutes until it softens and starts to brown. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; sauté for 3 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. Add more olive oil if needed.
- Toast the orzo: Add the uncooked orzo to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, for about 1 minute until lightly toasted to develop a nutty flavor.
- Develop the creamy base: Pour in the half and half and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the orzo: Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 10 minutes until the orzo turns tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Add cheese and season: Remove the lid, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and taste for seasoning, adjusting with salt and pepper as desired.
- Reintroduce vegetables and chicken: Mix in the sautéed asparagus and sliced chicken. Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and chopped parsley.
Notes
- Half and half is a mixture of whole milk and light cream, averaging 10-12% fat.
- This dish can be customized with additional vegetables like spinach, broccoli, mushrooms, or peas for added nutrition.
- Make sure to toast the orzo for extra flavor, and adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 570mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
