Description
Chicken and Asparagus Orzo is a light, flavorful, and balanced dinner that blends tender chicken breast, crisp fresh asparagus, and creamy orzo pasta. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish offers a harmonious combination of protein, vegetables, and carbs with bright lemon and savory Parmesan accents, making it ideal for quick, wholesome weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1– to 2-inch segments
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 shallots, minced
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
Pasta & Broth
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
Flavorings & Toppings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken and Asparagus: Cut boneless chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and trim the asparagus into 1- to 2-inch segments to ensure even cooking and easy eating.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and shallots, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, which forms the flavor base for the dish.
- Cook the Chicken: Add chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides and just cooked through, sealing in juices and developing texture.
- Toast the Orzo: Stir dry orzo into the skillet with the chicken, garlic, and shallots; toast lightly for about two minutes to develop a subtle nutty flavor.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender but still al dente, about 10 minutes.
- Add Asparagus and Finish: Five minutes before orzo finishes cooking, stir in asparagus segments so they steam and remain crisp-tender. When done, remove from heat and stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and freshly grated Parmesan for brightness and creaminess.
Notes
- Use fresh asparagus and lemon zest for the best flavor and texture.
- Do not overcook the orzo; aim for al dente for a pleasant bite.
- For a crispier chicken exterior, cook chicken separately before combining.
- Add lemon juice at the end to balance and elevate the richness.
- Reserve some Parmesan to sprinkle on top just before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
Keywords: chicken, asparagus, orzo, quick dinner, one-pot meal, healthy, weeknight, easy recipe, lemon, Parmesan