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Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 78 reviews

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a creamy, comforting one-pan dinner combining tender broccoli, shredded chicken, and sharp cheddar cheese with tender orzo pasta in a savory sauce. This easy stovetop recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal that’s rich, flavorful, and family-friendly.

Ingredients

Scale

Fats & Oils

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • ½ medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or thawed frozen)

Seasonings

  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Pasta & Liquids

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Proteins & Dairy

  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (e.g., rotisserie)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (preferably sharp)

Instructions

  1. Heat oil and butter: Warm olive oil and butter together in a skillet over medium heat until melted and hot.
  2. Sauté onions: Add chopped onions to the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until they become soft and translucent.
  3. Add broccoli: Stir in broccoli florets and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly.
  4. Add garlic, seasoning, and orzo: Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and orzo pasta. Toast the orzo for about 30 seconds while stirring to enhance flavor.
  5. Add liquids and simmer: Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
  6. Cook orzo: Let the mixture simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to help the pasta cook evenly.
  7. Add chicken: Stir in the shredded cooked chicken and heat through until warm throughout.
  8. Stir in cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and mix in shredded cheddar cheese until it’s fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
  9. Season and thicken: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the dish rest for 2 to 3 minutes to allow it to thicken before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh or thawed frozen broccoli based on what’s available.
  • Shredded rotisserie chicken is a convenient option that saves time.
  • For extra flavor, you can sprinkle some parmesan cheese on top before serving.
  • This recipe can be made milder or sharper by adjusting the type of cheddar cheese used.
  • Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated on the stovetop or microwave.

Keywords: Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo, one-pan dinner, creamy orzo, quick chicken dinner, comfort food, stovetop recipe

Find it online: https://servedbynora.com/cheesy-chicken-broccoli-orzo-recipe/