Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil
  • 1 tsp (5g) garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp (2.5g) dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp (1.25g) salt
  • 1/4 tsp (1.25g) black pepper
  • 1 lb (450g) asparagus, trimmed
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil
  • 1/4 tsp (1.25g) salt
  • 1/4 tsp (1.25g) black pepper
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (about 1/2 cup)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (200g) orzo pasta
  • 4 cups (950ml) chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice (from about 1-2 lemons)
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
  • Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Toss chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  3. Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet. Roast for 10-12 minutes, or until tender-crisp. Remove from oven and set aside.
  4. In the oven-safe skillet (or Dutch oven), heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F/74°C), about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  5. Add onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
  6. Add orzo to the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
  7. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  8. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Cook for 1-2 minutes more, until sauce is slightly thickened.
  9. Return chicken to the skillet. Add roasted asparagus. Gently toss to combine.
  10. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately with lemon wedges, if desired.