Creamy Asparagus High Protein Chicken Orzo You’ll Love

This Asparagus High Protein Chicken Orzo is a delicious, quick, and nutritious one-pot meal for busy weeknights.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 lb Boneless, Skinless Chicken Opt for breasts for leanness or thighs for moistness.

For the Seasoning

1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can substitute for a bolder taste.
1 teaspoon Salt Sea salt will provide a finer texture.
1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust to your preferred heat level.
1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Feel free to omit for a milder version.
2 tablespoons Olive Oil Used for cooking the chicken.

For the Vegetables

1 cup Onion (diced) Shallots can be used for a sweeter touch.
8 oz Asparagus (cut into 1-inch pieces) Green beans can be used as an alternative.
2 cloves Garlic (minced) Pre-minced can save time.
2 cups Spinach Kale could be a suitable substitute if desired.

For the Pasta and Broth

1 cup Orzo Quinoa serves as a gluten-free substitution.
4 cups Chicken Broth Swap for vegetable broth if keeping it vegetarian.

For the Creamy Sauce

1 teaspoon Thyme Italian seasoning works in a pinch.
1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Fresh lemon juice can enhance the tang further.
1 cup Half and Half Use heavy cream for richness.
1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated) Pecorino Romano can be used as an alternative.

Equipment

large skillet

Method

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Asparagus High Protein Chicken Orzo

Prepare Chicken: Pat dry the chicken, season with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, heat olive oil in a skillet, add chicken, and sear for 10-12 minutes. Transfer chicken to a plate.
Cook Asparagus: Sauté asparagus pieces in the same skillet for 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp.
Sauté Aromatics: Add diced onion, cook for 3-4 minutes, then add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Toast Orzo: Stir in orzo and toast in the oil for 2-3 minutes until golden.
Simmer: Pour in chicken broth and thyme, simmer for 7 minutes stirring halfway.
Combine Ingredients: Stir in chicken, asparagus, half and half, Parmesan, and lemon zest, fold in spinach and let wilt for 1-2 minutes.
Serve: Adjust seasoning, serve hot, and enjoy this comforting meal.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 900mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

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