Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo: A Delicious One-Pot Meal Recipe

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a delightful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table. As someone who loves to explore various cuisines, I find this recipe to be a perfect blend of flavors and textures that appeals to both kids and adults alike. The creamy cheese, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli come together in a harmonious way, making it a family favorite.

This dish has its roots in Italian cuisine, where orzo pasta is often used in soups and salads. However, I’ve taken a creative twist by combining it with chicken and broccoli, creating a one-pot meal that is not only delicious but also incredibly convenient. People adore Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo for its rich, cheesy flavor and the way it effortlessly combines protein and vegetables, making it a wholesome option for busy weeknights. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a staple in your household!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup milk (or heavy cream for a richer flavor)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Chicken

1. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning mixture all over the chicken breasts to ensure they are well-coated. 2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. You can check for doneness by cutting into the thickest part of the chicken; it should be no longer pink and the juices should run clear. 3. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender. After resting, slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Cooking the Orzo and Broccoli

4. In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. This will help deglaze the pan and pick up any flavorful bits left from cooking the chicken. 5. Once the broth is boiling, add the orzo pasta to the skillet. Stir it well to ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet. Let the orzo cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is al dente and has absorbed most of the broth. 6. While the orzo is cooking, prepare the broccoli. You can either steam the broccoli florets in a separate pot or microwave them for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. If you prefer, you can also add the broccoli directly to the skillet with the orzo during the last 3 minutes of cooking to save on dishes.

Making the Cheesy Sauce

7. Once the orzo is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Pour in the milk (or heavy cream) and stir to combine. This will create a creamy base for our cheesy sauce. 8. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring continuously until the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash more of milk or chicken broth to reach your desired consistency. 9. If you’re using dried Italian herbs, sprinkle them in at this stage for an extra layer of flavor. Stir well to incorporate.

Assembling the Dish

10. Now it’s time to add the sliced chicken and cooked broccoli to the skillet. Gently fold them into the cheesy orzo mixture, ensuring everything is well combined and coated in that delicious sauce. 11. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You might want to add a bit more salt, pepper, or even a dash of hot sauce if you like a little kick. 12. Once everything is well mixed and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. If you want to make it extra special, you can sprinkle some additional cheese on top and place it under the broiler for a couple of minutes until bubbly and golden.

Serving Suggestions

13. Serve the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. This dish is perfect on its own, but you can also pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. 14. Enjoy your delicious, comforting meal! This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is not only satisfying but also a great way to sneak in some veggies. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike!

Storage and Reheating

15. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the

Conclusion:

In summary, this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to whip up a comforting and delicious meal that the whole family will love. The creamy, cheesy goodness combined with tender chicken and vibrant broccoli creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients. Plus, the orzo adds a delightful twist that makes it stand out from your typical pasta dishes. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this dish with a fresh side salad or some crusty garlic bread to soak up all that cheesy goodness. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, or even swapping out the chicken for shrimp or a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo a try and experience the joy it brings to your dinner table. Once you do, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the love for this delightful dish together! Happy cooking!

Print