This one-pot creamy Parmesan orzo with chicken and asparagus is a cozy dish that’s super easy to make. You get tender chicken, fresh asparagus, and cheesy orzo all in one pot!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a dish with minimal cleanup? I love that it’s quick to whip up, and the creamy flavors make it extra tasty. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs keep the dish moist and flavorful. You can substitute with chicken breasts, but they may not be as juicy. For a meatless option, try using mushrooms or tofu.
Orzo Pasta: This small rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and is perfect in a creamy dish. If you can’t find orzo, you can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus adds a nice crunch and flavor. You can substitute it with green beans or broccoli if you prefer. Frozen asparagus also works in a pinch.
Heavy Cream: This makes the dish rich and creamy. For a lighter version, you might use half-and-half or whole milk, but it won’t be as thick. Coconut milk is a dairy-free alternative that adds a unique taste.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan enhances the dish with a salty flavor. You can use Pecorino Romano or a vegan cheese for a lactose-free option. Always grate your cheese fresh for the best texture!
How Do I Properly Sear Chicken Thighs?
Searing chicken thighs well is crucial for flavor. Start with a hot pan and the right oil to get a nice crust. Here are steps to follow:
- Heat olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Season chicken thighs well on both sides with salt, pepper, and spices.
- Add them to the pan without overcrowding; this helps in getting that golden brown color.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until browned, then let them rest before adding them back into the pot.
This will lock in the juices and keep the chicken tender while cooking in the creamy orzo!
How to Make One-Pot Creamy Parmesan Orzo With Chicken And Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dish:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 cups orzo pasta
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups fresh asparagus, chopped into 2-inch pieces
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 40 minutes total: around 10 minutes for prep and about 30 minutes for cooking. You’ll be searing the chicken, toasting the orzo, and then letting everything come together in one pot. It’s simple and rewarding!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil heats, season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs and sear them until golden brown on both sides, which takes about 5-7 minutes per side. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Garlic and Toast the Orzo:
In the same pot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Now, stir in the orzo and toast it for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure it doesn’t burn. This adds great flavor!
3. Cook the Orzo:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and add the chopped asparagus and the heavy cream. Stir everything well to combine.
4. Simmer and Finish cooking:
Return the seared chicken to the pot and cover it. Let the dish simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo is fully cooked and the chicken is tender and cooked through.
5. Stir in Cheese and Garnish:
Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and makes the dish creamy. You can adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. If you like, serve with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh twist. Enjoy your creamy and delightful meal!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While orzo is perfect for this recipe, you can substitute it with other small pasta, like ditalini or even rice. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta or grain you choose, as they may require more or less time to cook.
What if I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No worries! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of milk and butter. For a healthier option, use Greek yogurt or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream, keeping in mind it may alter the flavor slightly.
How to Store Leftovers Properly?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the orzo from absorbing too much liquid, consider adding a splash of broth or cream when reheating on the stove or in the microwave. Stir well to ensure an even heat.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! This dish is versatile, so feel free to add other veggies like spinach, peas, or bell peppers. Just remember to adjust the cooking times accordingly; softer vegetables, like spinach, can be added just a few minutes before the dish is done.
