Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo: Creamy Family Favorite (Print Version)
Creamy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a comforting one-pot meal. Tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and orzo pasta in a rich, cheesy sauce. Easy family dinner!
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ The Hearty Core
01 -
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
02 -
1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
03 -
1 lb fresh broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
→ Aromatic Foundation
04 -
1 tbsp olive oil
05 -
2 tbsp unsalted butter
06 -
1 medium yellow onion, diced
07 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
08 -
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
09 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ The Creamy, Cheesy Embrace
10 -
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
11 -
1 cup whole milk
12 -
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
13 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Finishing Touch
14 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces, seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides, then remove and set aside. This builds the first layer of flavor for your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo.
02 -
Reduce heat to medium, add 2 tbsp unsalted butter to the pot. Add 1 medium yellow onion, diced, and cook for 3-5 minutes until softened. Stir in 3 cloves garlic, minced, and 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
03 -
Pour in 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth and 1 cup whole milk, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This liquid base is crucial for the creamy texture of your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo.
04 -
Add 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta to the simmering liquid. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until the orzo is almost tender. Stir in 1 lb fresh broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces, and the seared chicken. Continue cooking for 3-5 minutes until broccoli is tender-crisp and orzo is fully cooked.
05 -
Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until completely melted and creamy. Season with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
06 -
Let the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo: A Creamy Family Favorite rest for a few minutes to thicken slightly. Garnish generously with 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, before serving warm. Enjoy this comforting and hearty meal!
# Notes:
01 -
Substitution Tip: Feel free to swap chicken for cooked sausage or shrimp. For extra veggies, add spinach or peas in the last few minutes of cooking.
02 -
Storage & Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
03 -
Perfect Orzo: To prevent the orzo from becoming gummy, stir frequently during cooking and remove from heat as soon as it's al dente, as it will continue to absorb liquid.
04 -
Serving Suggestion: This hearty dish is a complete meal on its own, but pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette or some crusty bread for dipping.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large Dutch oven or deep skillet
02 -
Cutting board
03 -
Chef's knife
04 -
Measuring cups
05 -
Measuring spoons
06 -
Wooden spoon
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 613 kcal
Total Fat: 24 g
Total Carbohydrate: 42 g
Protein: 55 g