Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Asparagus (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
01 -
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 3 pieces)
02 -
½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
03 -
½ teaspoon pepper, or to taste
04 -
1 tablespoon paprika
05 -
2 tablespoons olive oil
06 -
1 cup chopped asparagus
07 -
1 large onion, chopped
08 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
09 -
2 cups uncooked orzo
10 -
2 cups half and half
11 -
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water
12 -
1½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
13 -
2 tablespoons chopped parsley, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
02 -
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for about 5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Adjust cooking time as needed based on the thickness of the chicken. Transfer chicken to a warm plate and set aside.
03 -
In the same skillet, add asparagus and sauté for about 3 minutes, until softened and lightly browned. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
04 -
Add onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté for approximately 3 minutes, until onion becomes translucent and garlic is aromatic. Add more olive oil if needed.
05 -
Add orzo to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute to toast it lightly, enhancing its nutty flavor.
06 -
Add half and half and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a boil. Lower the heat to medium-low, cover with a lid, and let it cook for 10 minutes.
07 -
Remove the lid and stir in Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
08 -
Add cooked asparagus back to the skillet and stir. Slice chicken into thin pieces and either mix into the skillet or arrange over the orzo as preferred.
09 -
Garnish the dish with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley as desired. Serve warm.
# Notes:
01 -
Half and half is a mix of whole milk and light cream, typically containing 10-12% fat, which is less than light cream.
02 -
This dish is versatile and can include additional vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, mushrooms, or peas for extra nutrition.