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Asparagus-Orzo-with-Chicken-Recipe

Asparagus Orzo with Chicken

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  • Author: Peter
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 5 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dishes
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Description

This Asparagus Orzo with Chicken is a delightful combination of tender chicken, vibrant asparagus, and creamy orzo. Ideal for a quick and satisfying dinner, it’s a simple yet mouthwatering dish that brings comfort to your table seamlessly.

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

  1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes before flipping it. After fully cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate.
  3. Add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet along with the asparagus. Season and sauté for 2-3 minutes until bright green. Remove asparagus to the plate with chicken.
  4. If necessary, add more olive oil to the skillet. Stir in the onion and cook for 1-2 minutes. Add garlic, orzo, and lemon zest, stirring for 1 minute.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth, bringing it to a boil while scraping any brown bits from the pan. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 9-11 minutes or until orzo is al dente and liquid is mostly absorbed, stirring often.
  6. Mix in the pesto, lemon juice, half and half (or heavy cream), chicken, asparagus, and Parmesan cheese into the orzo. Stir until warmed through and cheese is melted, being careful not to boil. Adjust seasoning and serve topped with extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Feel free to substitute half and half with heavy cream for a creamier sauce.
Add more vegetables, like spinach or peas, for extra color and nutrition.
This dish can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for meal prep.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 65g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

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