Description
Creamy Garlic Orzo with Grilled Chicken and Asparagus
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt & pepper, to taste
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups chicken broth
½ cup heavy cream
3 garlic cloves, minced
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup fresh peas (frozen works too!)
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and roasted or steamed
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions
Season & Grill the Chicken
Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Grill over medium heat for 5-6 minutes per side, or until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Cook the Orzo
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes. Pour in chicken broth and cook until the orzo absorbs most of the liquid (about 10-12 minutes).
Make it Creamy
Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and peas. Cook until the sauce thickens and peas are tender. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve & Assemble
Spoon the creamy orzo onto plates. Top with sliced grilled chicken and asparagus. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 450 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a seamless cooking experience. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped: mince garlic, trim asparagus, grate Parmesan, and measure liquids. Begin by seasoning the chicken as directed. While it grills, start the orzo. The key is to toast the orzo in the skillet with the garlic until it turns lightly golden; this builds a nutty flavor base. When adding the broth, scrape up any browned bits from the pan. Simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally. As the orzo cooks, roast or steam your asparagus. Once the orzo is al dente and most liquid is absorbed, proceed to add the cream, cheese, and peas. The sliced chicken and asparagus are added at the very end, just to combine and warm through.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is a complete meal but can be elevated with simple additions. Serve with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A slice of crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. For a wine pairing, a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the herbal and garlic notes beautifully. Leftovers store well in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of broth to restore the creamy consistency.
How-to Summary
In brief: Season and grill chicken. In a skillet, toast orzo with garlic, then simmer in broth until tender. Finish the sauce with cream, Parmesan, and peas. Combine with sliced chicken and cooked asparagus. Garnish and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta? Yes, small pastas like ditalini or acini di pepe work well. Adjust broth quantity per package instructions.
How can I make this dish lighter? Substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich. You can also use low-sodium broth.
My sauce is too thick. How do I fix it? Simply stir in additional warm chicken broth, a few tablespoons at a time, until your desired consistency is reached.
Can I make this ahead of time? You can prep components ahead, but combine just before serving as the orzo will continue to absorb liquid.
What’s a good vegetarian alternative for the chicken? Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add cannellini beans or pan-seared mushrooms for protein.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the orzo toast: This crucial step adds depth. Don’t add the broth before the orzo is lightly toasted.
- Overcooking the chicken: Use a meat thermometer. Cooking to exactly 165°F (74°C) ensures juicy, not dry, meat.
- Adding cheese over high heat: Always reduce heat before stirring in Parmesan to prevent it from clumping or becoming greasy.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan: It contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Freshly grated cheese melts smoothly.
Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Orzo with Grilled Chicken and Asparagus is a testament to how simple ingredients can create an elegant, comforting dinner. The harmonious blend of creamy pasta, savory chicken, and fresh vegetables makes it a versatile recipe perfect for both weeknights and entertaining. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and achieve a restaurant-quality meal at home. We hope this becomes a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire.