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.
Ingredients
Scale
Main 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)
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra shredded cheese
- Crushed red pepper for spice
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
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/4 recipe)
- Calories: 475
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: cheesy chicken orzo, chicken broccoli recipe, one-pan meal, quick dinner, comfort food, creamy pasta, easy weeknight dinner
