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Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Chicken and Asparagus is a quick, comforting dinner that’s packed with flavor and ready in just 30 minutes. This one-skillet dish features juicy, seared chicken, tender asparagus, and orzo pasta simmered in a rich Parmesan-infused cream sauce. It’s the perfect weeknight meal when you want something hearty, cheesy, and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish offers a wonderful blend of flavors and textures—creamy orzo, savory chicken, and crisp-tender asparagus all in one pan. It’s a complete meal that’s comforting yet fresh, and versatile enough to suit a variety of palates. The addition of Parmesan cheese gives the sauce a rich, nutty depth, and using orzo makes it a unique twist on a classic pasta dinner. With simple ingredients and a fast cooking process, it’s an ideal choice for busy nights.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 3 pieces)
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup chopped asparagus
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups uncooked orzo
• 2 cups half and half
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or water)
• 1½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

directions

1. Season the chicken: Sprinkle both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a warm plate and set aside.
3. Cook the asparagus: In the same skillet, sauté the chopped asparagus for about 3 minutes until it begins to soften and brown slightly. Remove and set aside.
4. Sauté onion and garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 3 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Add more olive oil if needed.
5. Toast the orzo: Stir in the orzo and toast it for 1 minute to develop a nutty flavor.
6. Add liquids: Pour in the half and half and chicken broth. Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for 10 minutes.
7. Finish the sauce: Remove the lid, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
8. Combine: Add the asparagus back to the skillet and stir to combine. Slice the cooked chicken and either stir it into the orzo or serve it arranged on top.
9. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

Yield: 6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add more vegetables: Include spinach, mushrooms, broccoli, or peas for added nutrition and texture.
• Use different protein: Try shrimp, turkey, or grilled tofu as an alternative to chicken.
• Make it spicier: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the orzo while simmering.
• Use cream cheese: For a richer sauce, stir in a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese along with the Parmesan.
• Low-carb option: Swap orzo for cauliflower rice and reduce the broth to avoid overcooking.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating works as well—stir halfway through for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken can be added at the end to save time. Simply warm it through with the orzo.

What is orzo?

Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs sauces well, making it perfect for creamy dishes like this.

Can I substitute the half and half?

Yes, you can use whole milk for a lighter version or heavy cream for a richer one.

What if I don’t have chicken broth?

Water works fine, though using broth adds more depth of flavor. Vegetable broth is also a good substitute.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add extra vegetables or plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu.

How do I keep the orzo from sticking?

Stir frequently during the first few minutes of cooking, especially when adding the orzo and liquids.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can use gluten-free orzo to adapt the recipe.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, but it’s best served fresh. If making ahead, store the components separately and combine when reheating.

Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is not recommended due to the dairy content and texture of the orzo after thawing.

What pairs well with this dish?

Serve with a light green salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Chicken and Asparagus is a quick, flavorful dinner that brings together comfort and freshness in one pan. It’s a satisfying, family-friendly recipe that’s easy to customize and perfect for busy weeknights. With its creamy texture, rich cheese flavor, and tender chicken, this dish is sure to become a regular favorite at your dinner table.