Description

This Asparagus Orzo with Chicken is a delightful, quick dinner that’s easy to make. Packed with fresh asparagus, seasoned chicken, and creamy pesto, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal for any night.

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

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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. Flip and cook until fully cooked, then remove to a plate.
Add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of oil to the skillet and add chopped asparagus. Season with salt and pepper; cook for 2-3 minutes until bright green. Remove to the plate with chicken.
If necessary, add a little more olive oil to the skillet. Stir in the onion and cook for 1-2 minutes before adding garlic, orzo, and lemon zest. Cook for 1 minute.
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil, scraping any brown bits from the pan. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 9-11 minutes until orzo is al dente and liquid is mostly absorbed, stirring often.
Stir in pesto, lemon juice, heavy cream (or half and half), chicken, asparagus, and Parmesan cheese. Mix gently and warm through until cheese melts. Avoid boiling. Serve topped with extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or peas for extra nutrition.
You can substitute half and half with milk for a lighter version.
Ensure to monitor the orzo closely to prevent it from sticking to the pan.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 70mg