Description
This Asparagus Orzo with Chicken is a delightful dish combining tender chicken, vibrant asparagus, and creamy orzo. Perfect for a quick, satisfying meal that bursts with flavor!
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
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes, then flip to ensure it's cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil along with the asparagus to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until bright green, then remove and set aside with the chicken.
- If necessary, drizzle more olive oil into the skillet. Add the onion and cook for 1-2 minutes, then stir in the garlic, orzo, and lemon zest. Cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, and scrape any brown bits from the bottom. Reduce the heat and simmer for 9-11 minutes until the orzo is al dente and liquid is absorbed, stirring frequently.
- Stir in the pesto, lemon juice, half and half (or cream), chicken, asparagus, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well and warm through just until the cheese melts, avoiding boiling. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve topped with extra Parmesan.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute half and half with low-fat milk.
Feel free to add more vegetables like peas or spinach for additional color and nutrients.
This dish reheats well, making it great for leftovers.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg