Description
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a comforting and hearty one-pan meal combining tender diced chicken, fresh broccoli florets, and creamy melted cheddar cheese mixed with orzo pasta. Ready in just 35 minutes, this dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner that balances protein, veggies, and delicious cheesy goodness in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
Seasonings & Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil, allowing it to warm evenly.
- Cook the chicken: Add the diced chicken breast to the skillet and cook until it is browned on all sides and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add broccoli: Stir in the broccoli florets and continue cooking until the broccoli becomes tender but still crisp, around 4-5 minutes.
- Add liquids and orzo: Pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring to combine. Then, add the cooked orzo pasta to the skillet and mix all ingredients together thoroughly.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture and stir continuously until the cheese melts completely and coats the ingredients in a creamy sauce.
- Season: Season the dish with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste, ensuring the flavors are well balanced.
- Serve warm: Remove from heat and serve the cheesy chicken broccoli orzo warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheddar cheese.
- You can substitute broccoli with other vegetables like spinach or peas.
- To add extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning.
- Make sure not to overcook the broccoli to keep it vibrant and slightly crisp.
- This dish reheats well and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
