This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a warm and comforting dish. The tender orzo pasta mixes perfectly with juicy chicken, fresh broccoli, and melty cheese—yum!
I love how quick this meal is to make. Just toss everything into one pot and let it cook! Dinner doesn’t get easier or cheesier than this, right? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This rice-shaped pasta is perfect for creamy dishes. If you can’t find orzo, feel free to swap in other small pasta types like ditalini, couscous, or even rice for a different texture.
Chicken Breast: Diced chicken breast is lean and cooks quickly. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or swap it with turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Broccoli Florets: Fresh is ideal, but frozen broccoli works just as well. If you’re looking for variety, try spinach or kale instead; just add them toward the end of cooking since they wilt quickly.
Cheddar Cheese: A classic choice that melts beautifully. If you’re after a different flavor, consider using Monterey Jack, Gouda, or a mix of cheese. Keep your leftovers in the fridge to add to omelets or soups later!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option. I love the richness that heavy cream brings, but tailoring it to your diet can work as well.
How Do I Cook the Perfect Chicken Without Drying It Out?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but with a few simple steps, you can achieve moist, flavorful pieces every time. Here’s how:
- Use medium heat when cooking the chicken; too high can lead to dry meat.
- Cut the chicken into even-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
- Season well with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this helps the chicken brown nicely and cook evenly.
- Remove the chicken as soon as it’s cooked through, and let it rest for a few minutes before adding it back to the dish.
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping ingredients and another 20 minutes cooking everything together. It’s a quick and tasty meal that’s perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced chicken breast and season it with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and cooked through. When done, take it out of the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the diced onion. Sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it smells amazing!
3. Cook the Orzo and Broccoli:
Next, stir in the orzo pasta, chicken broth, and the broccoli florets. Bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente and the broccoli is tender. Remember to stir it occasionally!
4. Make it Cheesy:
Once the orzo and broccoli are cooked, it’s time to make it creamy! Slowly stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep mixing until all the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes creamy. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
5. Bring it All Together:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir everything together. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until it’s all heated through and well combined.
6. Serve it Up:
Finally, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your delicious Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo with fresh chopped parsley or basil. Serve warm and enjoy your wholesome meal!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of Orzo?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time. Adjust the chicken broth to about 4 cups and simmer the rice for about 20-25 minutes or until it’s cooked through. You may need to add a bit more broth if it’s too dry.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream for a Healthier Option?
Absolutely! You can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Just be mindful that using lower-fat options may result in a less creamy texture, so you might want to add a bit more cheese for added richness.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to keep it creamy, and gently warm it on the stove or microwave while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or carrots. Just make sure they’re cut into small pieces and added at the right time so they cook through without getting mushy.
