Creamy Orzo with Asparagus and Chicken

Creamy orzo is stuffed with tender pieces of asparagus and topped with juicy chicken in this easy dinner recipe. Chicken and Asparagus Orzo will be a new favorite weeknight meal!

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Keyword asparagus, chicken, creamy orzo, orzo recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Servings

Calories 622

Author Gayle Bialas

Equipment

Skillet

Ingredients

Chicken:

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 medium boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 teaspoons garlic powder
Salt and pepper (to taste)

Asparagus:

1 bundle fresh asparagus, chopped (roughly 1 cup)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper (to taste)

Orzo:

2 cups dry orzo
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups half-and-half (or heavy cream for more richness)
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper (to taste)
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot and then add olive oil. Add chicken to skillet and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook and brown chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove chicken from pan, let rest for 3-4 minutes, and then cut into bite-sized pieces.
While chicken is cooking, preheat oven to 400°F. Line a large baking pan with parchment paper or coat with cooking spray.
Add chopped asparagus to pan, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and toss to coat. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until tender. Set aside.
Use the same large skillet and add orzo. Stir orzo to scrape up the bottom bits on the pan for flavor. Add chicken broth, half-and-half, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Bring mixture to a boil. Then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, until orzo is cooked and tender, about 5-6 minutes.
Remove lid, add grated Parmesan cheese, and stir. Serve immediately.

Notes

This recipe will last in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
See my tips and tricks for making this Creamy Orzo with Asparagus and Chicken above the recipe box.

Nutrition