This Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a warm and comforting dish. It’s packed with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy cheese all mixed with yummy orzo pasta!
I love how this dish comes together in one pot—less mess and more time to enjoy! Plus, it’s a hit with the whole family. Who doesn’t love cheesy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless skinless chicken breasts are easy to work with and cook quickly. You can use thighs for more flavor or even swap for rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time. Just shred it and add it in.
Orzo Pasta: Orzo gives a nice texture, but you can substitute with other small pasta like ditalini or even rice if you prefer. Just keep an eye on the cooking times!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds crunch and color. Frozen broccoli works too—just thaw it first. You could even use other veggies like spinach or peas if you like.
Cheese: I love the combo of cheddar and mozzarella for creaminess. If you’re looking to lighten things up, use part-skim cheeses or even a dairy-free cheese for those with dietary restrictions.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness. You can substitute with half-and-half or cashew cream for a lighter option.
How Do I Ensure My Orzo is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking orzo can be tricky if you’re new to it! To ensure it’s just right, follow these tips:
- When you add the chicken broth, bring it to a gentle boil before lowering the heat. This helps the orzo cook evenly.
- Cover the skillet for the simmering step—it traps heat and helps the orzo absorb the liquid.
- Taste the orzo a minute or two before the package’s suggested cooking time to get your preferred texture—al dente is best!
By keeping an eye on it, you should end up with tender orzo that perfectly complements the chicken and broccoli!
Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick, one-pot meal, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside while we prepare the next steps.
2. Sauté the Garlic
In the same pan, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant—this adds great flavor! Make sure not to let it burn.
3. Toast the Orzo
Next, add the orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring gently for about 1 minute to lightly toast it. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the orzo.
4. Add Broth and Simmer
Now, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 8 minutes.
5. Cook the Broccoli
After the orzo has been simmering, add the fresh broccoli florets right on top of the orzo (don’t stir it in!). Cover the pan again and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and the orzo is cooked through.
6. Combine Chicken, Cream, and Cheese
Stir in the cooked chicken, heavy cream (or half-and-half), Italian seasoning (if using), and all the cheeses. Mix everything together thoroughly, letting the cheese melt into a creamy goodness.
7. Season and Serve
Give your dish a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Finally, remove it from the heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve warm.
Enjoy your comforting and cheesy chicken broccoli orzo dish!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes, using frozen broccoli is a great time-saver! Just make sure to thaw it first, and you can add it directly to the pot in the last few minutes of cooking.
What If I Don’t Have Orzo Pasta?
No problem at all! You can substitute orzo with other small pasta like ditalini, or even use rice or quinoa. Just adjust the cooking times according to the package instructions for whichever substitute you choose.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep it creamy!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the chicken with your favorite plant-based protein, such as chickpeas or tofu. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly!
