Name: Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 cups small broccoli florets; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1/2 cup whole milk; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; Salt to taste

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Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate comfort food: Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo! This dish delivers everything you crave in a cozy one-pan meal—incredibly creamy orzo, juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and a double punch of rich cheddar and Parmesan. It comes together in just 30 minutes, but tastes like you’ve been hovering over the stove for hours. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight family dinner or a crave-worthy lunch prep, this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo checks every box.

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simplicity at its finest! Every ingredient in this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo brings something special to the table—from the golden, gooey cheese to the bright pop of broccoli. Here’s why each one belongs in the pot.

Orzo Pasta: These tiny, rice-shaped noodles become perfectly creamy and tender, making every bite ultra-comforting.
Olive Oil: It helps sear the chicken, locks in its moisture, and adds a subtle fruity flavor base.
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast: Bite-sized chicken makes each forkful hearty and satisfying, and it cooks quickly too!
Broccoli Florets: Fresh green broccoli brightens up the dish and adds a satisfying crunch, plus a dose of nutrients.
Garlic: Just two cloves add loads of aromatic, savory depth—don’t skip it!
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: This forms the flavor-packed base that cooks the orzo and keeps it from drying out.
Whole Milk: For rich, creamy texture and just the right amount of luxury.
Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Melts into gooey perfection and gives that signature cheesy flavor.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty umami punch and a little sophistication to each bite.
Onion Powder: A pantry hero that quietly bolsters the savory notes in the background.
Black Pepper: Adds a gentle warmth and depth without overtaking the other flavors.
Salt (to taste): Heightens all the flavors—just sprinkle in enough until it’s perfect for you.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat and add the olive oil. When the oil shimmers, toss in the chicken pieces, sprinkle them with salt and pepper, and let them sizzle for about 5 or 6 minutes. Your goal here is to get the chicken golden, juicy, and cooked through—it’ll smell so enticing you might have to fend off kitchen grazers!

Step 2: Add the Garlic

Once your chicken pieces are just cooked, sprinkle the minced garlic over the top and stir for about 30 seconds. You’ll notice the wonderful aroma almost instantly, letting you know it’s time for the next step. The quick sauté ensures your garlic is fragrant but not bitter.

Step 3: Toast the Orzo

Now, stir in the uncooked orzo pasta directly into the pan. Let the orzo toast for 1 to 2 minutes, tossing gently so it soaks up all those fabulous, garlicky pan flavors. This step adds a hint of nuttiness and keeps your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo extra flavorful.

Step 4: Simmer In Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it up to a boil. Give everything a good stir, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer. Stir occasionally, and watch as the orzo absorbs all the savory broth, turning soft and creamy in about 8 to 10 minutes—almost there!

Step 5: Broccoli & Creamy Ingredients

Add the broccoli florets, pour in the milk, and sprinkle in the onion powder. Uncover your pan and keep it at a gentle simmer for another 3 to 4 minutes. The broccoli will go from firm to just tender, and the liquid will mostly soak into the pasta, making it creamy but not soupy.

Step 6: Cheese, Please!

As soon as the broccoli is perfectly tender, remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese until everything is melty, velvety, and luscious. Taste it—maybe add a dash more salt or pepper if you like—then serve up your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo nice and warm!

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

Garnishes

This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is absolutely luscious on its own, but a final flourish of toppings makes it shine. Sprinkle on extra Parmesan or a handful of fresh chopped parsley for color and flavor. If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a fun kick, or a quick squeeze of lemon juice brightens every bite.

Side Dishes

To round out this one-pot wonder, serve Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo with a crisp green salad drizzled in a simple vinaigrette, or with warm, crusty bread to mop up all the cheesy goodness. Roasted balsamic veggies or a bowl of fruit salad bring balance to the meal and keep things family-friendly.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be afraid to have fun with presentation! Pile your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo into deep pasta bowls for a hearty, rustic look, or try scooping it into ramekins and topping each with a sprinkle of cheese for an individual, baked moment at your next dinner party. This dish even makes a stellar potluck addition—just keep it snug in a casserole dish and watch it vanish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo holds up like a champ! Just scoop any extra into a tightly sealed container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The orzo might absorb even more creamy flavor as it chills, so the next day’s lunch can be even more satisfying than the first bite.

Freezing

If you want to save a batch for later, this dish freezes surprisingly well. Let the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo cool completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Just know the broccoli might soften a tiny bit upon reheating, but the flavors are every bit as delicious.

Reheating

When it’s time to reheat, place your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo in a saucepan with a splash of milk or broth, and warm over medium-low heat. Stir often to bring back that silky, creamy texture. Microwave reheating works too—just add a little extra liquid, cover loosely, and heat in intervals, stirring in between so everything warms evenly.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a smart shortcut—just stir it in with the broccoli, milk, and seasonings so it heats through without drying out. It’s a fantastic way to save time when making Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo on a busy night.

Can I swap out the cheeses?

Go for it! Sharp cheddar gives that classic gooey melt, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even gouda for a different cheese vibe in your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo. Mixing a few types can create a super-interesting flavor profile.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes—swap the chicken for plant-based protein like cubed tofu or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This adjustment keeps all the creamy, cheesy delight while making Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo perfect for a meat-free meal.

Can I add other veggies?

Definitely! Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is endlessly adaptable. Try tossing in peas, spinach, or finely chopped bell peppers for a splash of extra color and nutrition. Just add them towards the end so they don’t overcook.

What can I do if my orzo absorbs too much liquid?

No worries! If the orzo drinks up more liquid than expected and seems too thick, simply stir in a bit more warm milk or broth until you reach your desired creamy consistency. This keeps Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo luscious and never dry.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings some cheesy joy to your kitchen! Whether you whip up Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo for a quick family dinner or tuck away portions for future comfort food cravings, it’s the kind of meal that’s guaranteed to be requested again and again. Dig in and enjoy every creamy, cozy bite!

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Recipe

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4.5 from 5 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a delicious one-pot meal that combines tender orzo pasta, juicy chicken, and crisp broccoli, all coated in a creamy cheese sauce. It’s a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for a family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Orzo:

1 cup uncooked orzo pasta

Chicken:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

Broccoli:

2 cups small broccoli florets

Other Ingredients:

2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup whole milk
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste

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Instructions

Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through.
Add Orzo: Add garlic to the skillet, then stir in orzo and cook briefly to toast.
Cook Orzo: Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then cover and simmer until orzo is almost tender.
Add Broccoli: Add broccoli, milk, onion powder, and simmer until broccoli is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Add Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan until creamy. Adjust seasoning and serve.