Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Chicken and Asparagus
Ingredients
- 1 lbchicken breast)
boneless and skinless (about 3
- ½ tspsalt
- ½ tsppepper
- 1 tbsppaprika
- 2 tbspolive oil
- 1 casparagus
chopped
- 1 largeonion
chopped
- 4 clovesgarlic
minced
- 2 corzo
uncooked
- 2 chalf and half
- 3 cchicken broth
low sodium, or water
- 1 ½ cparmesan cheese
grated
- 2 tbspparsley
chopped, for garnish
Directions
- 1
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper and paprika on both sides.
- 2
In a large skillet heat the 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Depending on the thickness of your chicken you might need longer time. Transfer the chicken to a warm plate; set aside.
- 3
In the same skillet add the asparagus and saute for about 3 minutes, just until it starts to soften and starts to brown a bit. Transfer to a plate; set aside.
- 4
In the same skillet add the onion and garlic and saute for about 3 minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic becomes aromatic. Add more olive oil if needed.
- 5
Add the orzo to the skillet and saute for just one minute, to get it a little toasted, this will give it a nutty flavor. Add the half and half, chicken broth and stir.
- 6
Bring to a boil, then turn the heat down to a medium-low, cover with lid and let it cook for 10 minutes.
- 7
Remove the lid and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Taste for seasoning and adjust with salt and pepper.
- 8
Add the asparagus back and stir it in. Slice the chicken into thin slices. You can either add it to the skillet and stir it in, or as seen in the photos, arrange over the orzo.
- 9
Garnish with more Parmesan cheese if preferred, and parsley. Serve warm.
Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Chicken and Asparagus
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About this Recipe
Looking for a delicious dinner that's both comforting and incredibly fast? This Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Chicken and Asparagus delivers cheesy, creamy goodness to your table in just 30 minutes, making weeknight meals a breeze. It's the perfect solution for satisfying cravings on even the busiest evenings. This recipe stands out for its remarkable efficiency, transforming simple, fresh ingredients into a deeply satisfying meal in just half an hour. The classic combination of tender, paprika-seasoned chicken, vibrant asparagus, and rich parmesan orzo creates a hearty dish that feels gourmet despite its quick preparation. You'll love how easily it comes together, providing big flavors with minimal fuss. Prepare for a truly comforting and flavorful experience. Each spoonful offers tender orzo pasta coated in a luxurious, velvety parmesan sauce, perfectly balanced by savory pieces of paprika-seasoned chicken and crisp-tender asparagus. The fresh garlic and aromatic onion build a robust flavor foundation, ensuring every bite is rich and satisfying. It's a dish that warms you from the inside out, tasting like it took hours, but comes together in minutes. While delicious as written, this Creamy Parmesan Orzo is wonderfully adaptable to your preferences or what you have on hand. - Protein Swaps: Easily substitute the chicken breast with succulent shrimp for a seafood twist, or incorporate pan-seared mushrooms for a meatless option. - Vegetable Additions: Feel free to stir in other quick-cooking vegetables like fresh spinach, peas, or diced bell peppers along with the asparagus. - Creaminess Control: Adjust the creaminess by using whole milk instead of half and half for a slightly lighter touch, or a touch more broth if you prefer a looser consistency. This hearty Creamy Parmesan Orzo makes for a superb weeknight dinner, offering both comfort and flavor after a long day. It's also elegant enough to serve for a casual gathering with friends. Enjoy it as a complete, satisfying meal, perhaps with a simple side salad to provide a fresh counterpoint to its rich flavors.