If you are craving a dish that perfectly balances comfort and elegance, this Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Chicken and Asparagus Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine tender chicken breasts seasoned to perfection, nestled alongside bright, crisp asparagus and tender orzo pasta, all enveloped in a luscious, cheesy Parmesan sauce. This dish brings together simple ingredients that transform into a hearty, satisfying meal in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or when entertaining friends. It’s creamy, flavorful, and has just the right touch of freshness that makes every bite a delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Chicken and Asparagus Recipe are straightforward but each one plays a crucial role in building its rich taste and vibrant texture. From the paprika-seasoned chicken to the sharp Parmesan cheese and the fresh asparagus, these elements come together to create a balanced and irresistible dish.
- 1 pound chicken breast boneless and skinless: The star protein, providing tender and juicy meat when cooked properly.
- ½ teaspoon salt or to taste: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and vegetables.
- ½ teaspoon pepper or to taste: Adds a gentle kick to round out the seasoning.
- 1 tablespoon paprika: Imparts a smoky depth and beautiful color to the chicken.
- 1 cup asparagus chopped: Brings a fresh, slightly crunchy contrast to the creamy elements.
- 1 large onion chopped: Builds a savory base with its natural sweetness when sautéed.
- 4 cloves garlic minced: Gives a fragrant, aromatic kick that wakes up the palate.
- 2 cups uncooked orzo: The fun pasta component that soaks up the creamy sauce nicely.
- 2 cups half and half: Adds luscious creaminess without overpowering richness.
- 3 cups chicken broth low sodium, or water: Provides moisture and savory flavor for cooking the orzo.
- 1½ cups Parmesan cheese grated: The key ingredient for that perfectly cheesy, nutty finish.
- 2 tablespoons parsley chopped: Fresh garnish that brightens the dish with a pop of green.
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Chicken and Asparagus Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by generously seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides. This simple step is essential to achieve a flavorful and well-rounded taste profile. The paprika especially brings a smoky warmth that enhances the chicken’s natural flavor beautifully.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear them for about 5 minutes per side, until each side is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. This method locks in the juices for moist and tender chicken. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a warm plate and set aside to rest.
Step 3: Cook the Asparagus
In the same skillet, add the chopped asparagus and sauté for approximately 3 minutes. The goal is to soften the asparagus slightly while allowing it to brown a bit for extra flavor. This quick sauté keeps the asparagus bright and crisp. Once done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside as well.
Step 4: Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 3 minutes until the onions become translucent and the garlic releases its delicious aroma. If the skillet looks dry, add a little more olive oil to keep everything from sticking. This step builds a savory flavor foundation that will enrich the whole dish.
Step 5: Toast the Orzo
Next, pour the uncooked orzo into the skillet and sauté it for about 1 minute. Toasting the orzo gives it a subtle nutty aroma and slightly firmer texture after cooking, which adds wonderful complexity to the dish.
Step 6: Add Liquids and Cook
Pour in the half and half followed by the chicken broth, stirring well to combine. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover with a lid and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. This simmering step lets the creamy sauce thicken perfectly.
Step 7: Finish the Sauce
Remove the lid and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese melts smoothly into the sauce, making it irresistibly creamy and flavorful. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary to suit your preference.
Step 8: Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked asparagus back into the skillet and stir to evenly distribute it through the creamy orzo. Slice the rested chicken thinly and either fold the slices into the skillet or arrange them neatly on top when serving. Finish with a sprinkle of additional Parmesan and fresh chopped parsley for a beautiful presentation.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
This dish is best enjoyed warm, straight from the skillet. The creamy texture, tender chicken, and fresh asparagus come together in a harmonious blend that makes the Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Chicken and Asparagus Recipe a comforting yet elegant meal perfect for any occasion.
How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Chicken and Asparagus Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic garnish here, adding a vibrant green color and fresh herbaceous flavor. A little extra grated Parmesan on top not only enhances the cheesy flavor but also creates an appealing visual. For a bit of crunch, toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds can be sprinkled over the finished dish.
Side Dishes
Since this is a rich and filling main dish, pairing it with light, crisp sides like a simple mixed green salad with vinaigrette or roasted cherry tomatoes is a great idea. A crusty bread or garlic bread can also be a delightful accompaniment to soak up any leftover creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
To elevate your presentation, serve the orzo in individual shallow bowls and arrange the sliced chicken carefully on top in a fan shape. Drizzle a little extra olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice on the chicken for brightness. For a dinner party, plating with microgreens or edible flowers adds a gourmet touch that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Chicken and Asparagus Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after a day, making it a fantastic next-day meal.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, but keep in mind that the texture of the asparagus may soften slightly upon thawing. Pack leftovers tightly in a freezer-safe container, removing as much air as possible, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of chicken broth or half and half to help loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to prevent the orzo from drying out and to restore that smooth, creamy consistency you love.
FAQs
Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Shrimp or turkey cutlets work beautifully with this dish and cook quickly. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to keep them tender.
What can I substitute for half and half if I don’t have it?
You can use a mixture of milk and cream or even whole milk alone, although the sauce will be a bit lighter in texture and richness.
Is orzo gluten-free?
Traditional orzo is made from wheat and contains gluten. If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free orzo or substitute with rice or quinoa.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra asparagus or other vegetables like mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian meal.
How can I make this dish more flavorful?
Adding a splash of white wine when sautéing the onions or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can enhance flavor complexity nicely.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend this Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Chicken and Asparagus Recipe enough if you want a dish that is both comforting and elegant with minimal fuss. It transforms simple ingredients into a creamy, delicious meal that feels special any night of the week. I hope you give it a try and enjoy every satisfying spoonful as much as I do!
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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: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Chicken and Asparagus is a comforting and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts are seasoned and seared to golden perfection, paired with sautéed asparagus and a luscious, cheesy orzo cooked in a creamy blend of half and half and chicken broth. The dish is finished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and bright parsley, creating a rich yet balanced meal that’s both easy to prepare and satisfying.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3 breasts)
- ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper or to taste
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing and sautéing)
Vegetables
- 1 cup asparagus, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Orzo and Liquids
- 2 cups uncooked orzo pasta
- 2 cups half and half
- 3 cups low sodium chicken broth (or water)
Cheese and Garnish
- 1½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Generously season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika to enhance flavor.
- Sear the chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for about 5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and transfer to a warm plate to rest.
- Cook the asparagus: In the same skillet, add the chopped asparagus and sauté for approximately 3 minutes until tender and slightly browned. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for around 3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic releases a fragrant aroma. Add additional olive oil if the skillet appears dry.
- Toast the orzo: Pour in the uncooked orzo and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to give it a nutty aroma and slightly toasted texture.
- Add liquids and cook: Stir in the half and half and chicken broth, mixing well. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet with a lid, and simmer for 10 minutes until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Finish the sauce: Remove the lid and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
- Combine ingredients: Add the cooked asparagus back into the skillet and stir to combine. Thinly slice the rested chicken breasts and add them to the skillet or arrange over the top of the orzo. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
- Serve: Serve the dish warm immediately after garnishing for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use low sodium chicken broth to control salt levels; adjust seasoning at the end accordingly.
- For a richer flavor, substitute half and half with heavy cream, but note this will increase fat and calories.
- Feel free to swap asparagus with other tender vegetables such as peas or green beans.
- Make sure to let the chicken rest after searing to retain juices and ensure tenderness.
- This recipe can be doubled for meal prep and reheats well in the microwave or on stovetop with a splash of broth or water.
