Name: Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo – Ready in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced; 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup milk (whole or 2%); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon paprika; 1 tablespoon olive oil; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh parsley, chopped; Extra shredded cheese; Crushed red pepper for spice

Jump to Recipe

If you are craving a comforting, creamy meal that comes together quickly and delights all ages, then you must try this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo recipe. What truly makes this dish shine is the magical moment when you Return Chicken: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to combine, allowing all those beautiful flavors to meld perfectly in one pan. This step not only brings the dish full circle but guarantees every bite is bursting with savory goodness, creamy cheese, tender chicken, and vibrant green broccoli. Trust me, once you incorporate that key step, this meal will become an instant favorite in your kitchen.

Return Chicken: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to combine Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe delivers on flavor, texture, and color without fuss. Each component plays an essential role from the juicy chicken breast providing hearty protein, to the cheesy goodness that wraps around the tender orzo pasta and crisp broccoli florets.

Orzo Pasta: Small and quick-cooking, it soaks up the sauce for a creamy texture that’s simply irresistible.
Chicken Breast: Lean and diced, it adds satisfying protein and cooks evenly in the skillet.
Broccoli Florets: These lend a fresh, green bite and add fiber for balance.
Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the dish with depth and a savory aroma.
Chicken Broth: Provides the flavorful cooking liquid that keeps the orzo moist and tender.
Milk (whole or 2%): Adds creaminess to the sauce without overpowering the other flavors.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully for rich, gooey indulgence.
Salt, Black Pepper, Paprika: These seasonings enhance the savory notes and add a touch of warmth.
Olive Oil: Used to sauté the chicken, it adds a slight fruitiness and helps brown the meat.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For those who love a gentle spicy kick to brighten the dish.

How to Make Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo – Ready in 30 Minutes

Step 1: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken breast seasoned with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until each piece turns a gorgeous golden brown and is cooked through. Once ready, remove the chicken and set it aside. This step builds a wonderful flavor foundation and ensures the chicken stays juicy and tender.

Step 2: Create the Flavor Base with Garlic and Orzo

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant—this step wakes up your senses with a burst of aromatic delight. Toss in the orzo pasta and stir to coat it in the garlic-infused oil, letting it toast lightly for about a minute. This slight toasting adds a subtle nuttiness that transforms the dish.

Step 3: Simmer the Orzo in Broth and Milk

Pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring everything to combine well. Bring this to a simmer and let it cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally so the orzo cooks evenly and absorbs all those lovely liquids. This creates the creamy base you crave.

Step 4: Add Broccoli and Melt the Cheese

Next, stir in the vibrant broccoli florets. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is tender yet still maintains a slight crunch, adding fresh color and texture. Then, lower the heat and gently fold in shredded cheddar cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce, coating every grain of orzo with cheesy goodness.

Step 5: Return Chicken: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to combine

Now here it is — the crucial and satisfying moment in the recipe where you Return Chicken: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to combine. This final step melds all the flavors together, letting the chicken soak up the creamy sauce and infuse the whole dish with savory magic. It’s the secret that turns a simple pasta dish into a comforting, all-in-one meal.

Step 6: Final Seasoning and Touches

Give the dish a taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you love a gentle heat. Stir everything once more until uniformly combined. Your delightful Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is officially ready to be enjoyed.

How to Serve Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo – Ready in 30 Minutes

Garnishes

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of vibrant green and a fresh herbal note. Adding extra shredded cheddar cheese over the warm dish elevates its cheesiness, while a light sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can lend a pleasant subtle heat perfect for those who enjoy a little spice.

Side Dishes

This dish is star-worthy all on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad balances the creaminess beautifully. Garlic bread offers extra comfort and crunch, or you can serve roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots or asparagus alongside for added flavor and nutrition.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform leftovers into wraps by spooning the cheesy chicken and broccoli mixture into tortillas for a quick lunch. You can also layer the dish into a casserole dish, top with extra cheese, and bake for 10 minutes to create a bubbling casserole that’s perfect for entertaining. For a bright twist, a squeeze of fresh lemon just before serving adds a lovely citrus brightness that cuts through the rich creaminess.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, making the next day’s meal just as enjoyable.

Freezing

While this dish freezes well, keep in mind that the texture of broccoli might soften further upon thawing. To freeze, place portions in airtight containers or freezer bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce and restore creaminess. Stir often until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish, stirring halfway to ensure even warmth.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli is a convenient option and works well in this recipe. Just add it a bit earlier during cooking to ensure it warms through and becomes tender.

What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar cheese is classic for this dish due to its melting quality and rich flavor. For a different twist, you could blend cheddar with Parmesan or mozzarella for extra creaminess and depth.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Sure! Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adding extra veggies or plant-based protein can keep it hearty and satisfying.

Is it possible to prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the orzo and broccoli in advance and refrigerate the cooked chicken separately. Combine everything and complete the final Return Chicken: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to combine step just before serving to keep the dish fresh and flavorful.

How can I add a spicy kick?

Add red pepper flakes during the seasoning phase or mix in diced jalapeños when cooking the garlic and orzo for a bold, spicy flavor that complements the creamy sauce wonderfully.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a comforting hug in a skillet, effortlessly hitting all the right notes from creamy and cheesy to fresh and savory. The magic truly happens when you Return Chicken: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to combine, locking in flavor and warmth with every spoonful. Whether you’re cooking for busy weeknights, feeding picky eaters, or want a dish that reheats beautifully for leftovers, this recipe is a winner you’ll find yourself making again and again. So grab your skillet and give it a try — you won’t regret it!

Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo – Ready in 30 Minutes

★★★★★

5 from 27 reviews

Author: Naomi
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a quick and comforting one-pan meal that combines tender diced chicken, fresh broccoli florets, and creamy, cheesy orzo pasta. Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish balances protein, fiber, and rich flavors for a nutritious and satisfying dinner the whole family will enjoy.

Instructions

Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast, season with salt, black pepper, and paprika, then cook for 5-6 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Orzo and Sauce: Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the orzo and stir to coat it in the garlic and oil for 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth and milk, then bring mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 7-8 minutes stirring occasionally until the orzo is tender but still has a slight bite.
Add Broccoli and Cheese: Stir in the broccoli florets and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the orzo is creamy. Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Finish the Dish: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir everything together. Adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes according to taste.
Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra shredded cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, cheesy comfort meal.

Notes

Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for a faster option.
Fresh broccoli provides a slight crunch, while frozen broccoli results in a softer texture.
Lightly toasting the orzo before cooking enhances its flavor.
Mix cheddar with Parmesan cheese for richer taste.
Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas for more veggies and variety.
Loosen thickened orzo with extra broth or milk before serving.
Top with breadcrumbs and broil for a crispy finish if desired.
Leftovers reheat well for an easy next-day meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Sautéing and Simmering
Cuisine: American