Description
This Broccoli Cheddar Orzo with Chicken is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting one-pan meal that's ready in just 30 minutes! Packed with tender chicken, flavorful orzo, and fresh broccoli in a rich cheddar cheese sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. It's kid-friendly, nutritious, and easy to make ahead.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 3-4 chicken thighs), diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
For the Orzo:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1½ cups broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Toast the Orzo: In the same skillet, add the orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden.
- Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and milk. Stir well, bring to a simmer, and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Broccoli: Stir in the chopped broccoli and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet. Stir in the cheddar cheese, paprika, salt, and black pepper until the cheese melts and everything is well combined.
- Serve: Remove from heat and let sit for a couple of minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!
Notes
- Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Use Different Cheese: Try mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a different flavor.
- Go Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for mushrooms or chickpeas.
- Add More Veggies: Stir in peas, carrots, or spinach.
- Make It Creamier: Add a splash of heavy cream for an extra rich texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pan Cooking
- Cuisine: American
