Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo has become my absolute go-to for busy weeknights, and I think you’re going to love it too! Imagine tender pieces of chicken, vibrant broccoli florets, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta all swimming in a rich, velvety cheese sauce. The aroma alone is enough to make your stomach rumble – it’s pure comfort in a bowl. What I adore most is that this entire delicious meal comes together in just one pan and is ready in under 40 minutes, making it the definition of easy cheesy chicken broccoli orzo. It’s the kind of dinner that makes everyone happy, no matter how hectic the day.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

This dish is a weeknight winner for so many reasons! You’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together, usually in under 40 minutes from start to finish. The best part? It’s a true one-pan wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal. It’s the ultimate comfort food, offering that satisfying blend of tender chicken, creamy pasta, and cheesy goodness that everyone adores. Kids especially love this creamy chicken broccoli orzo bake, making it a guaranteed hit for the whole family. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; you can easily adapt it with different veggies or cheeses. This cheesy orzo with chicken and broccoli makes weeknight dinners a breeze!

Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

Gathering your cheesy chicken broccoli orzo ingredients is the first step to this delightful meal. You’ll need:

• 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, diced – for a hearty protein base
• 2 cups broccoli florets – fresh is best for vibrant color and flavor
• 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta – this tiny pasta shape cooks quickly and absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – the star for that gooey, melty goodness
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds a sharp, salty depth to the sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that savory foundation
• 1 small onion, diced – provides a subtle sweetness and aroma
• 3 cups chicken broth – the liquid base that cooks the orzo
• 1 cup milk or cream – for that luxurious, creamy texture
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter – to sauté the aromatics and chicken
• 1 tsp salt (to taste) – to enhance all the flavors
• 1/2 tsp black pepper (to taste) – for a touch of warmth

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

Follow these simple cheesy chicken broccoli orzo instructions to create this amazing dish. This chicken broccoli orzo skillet comes together so easily!

1. Step 1: Grab a large skillet and heat 2 tbsp olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once shimmering, add your 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, diced. Cook until it’s nicely browned and cooked through, then remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add your 1 small onion, diced and 2 cloves garlic, minced. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and softened, filling your kitchen with a wonderful aroma.
3. Step 3: Now, stir in the 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta. Toast it for just a minute or two, stirring constantly, until it smells slightly nutty. This step really helps develop the flavor.
4. Step 4: Pour in the 3 cups chicken broth and 1 cup milk or cream. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
5. Step 5: Add the 2 cups broccoli florets to the skillet. Let it cook for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want the orzo to be tender and the broccoli to be bright green and softened, but still have a slight bite.
6. Step 6: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is wonderfully creamy and well combined.
7. Step 7: Finally, season your masterpiece with 1 tsp salt (to taste) and 1/2 tsp black pepper (to taste). Give it a good stir and taste to adjust seasoning if needed. Serve this delicious cheesy chicken broccoli orzo warm, maybe with a little extra cheese on top!

Step-by-Step Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Instructions

Here are the straightforward cheesy chicken broccoli orzo instructions to guide you:

1. Step 1: Heat oil/butter, brown chicken, remove.
2. Step 2: Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant and softened.
3. Step 3: Toast orzo for 1-2 minutes.
4. Step 4: Add broth and milk/cream, bring to simmer.
5. Step 5: Stir in broccoli, cook until orzo is tender and broccoli is bright green and softened.
6. Step 6: Return chicken, stir in cheeses until melted and creamy.
7. Step 7: Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

Want to elevate your cheesy chicken broccoli orzo game? Here are a few tricks I’ve picked up that make all the difference:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning the chicken; cook it in batches if necessary to ensure a nice sear.
• Use good quality cheese! Freshly shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan melt better and taste superior to pre-shredded varieties.
• Feel free to swap the chicken for rotisserie chicken to save time on busy nights.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic and onion.

What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo?

The real secret to the best cheesy chicken broccoli orzo is achieving that perfect creamy texture without making it mushy. Ensure your orzo is cooked al dente before stirring in the cheeses. This prevents it from becoming overly soft when the cheese melts in.

Can I make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish is fantastic for cheesy chicken broccoli orzo meal prep. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth to restore its creamy consistency.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo?

A common pitfall is overcooking the orzo, which leads to a gummy texture. Be sure to cook it until it’s just tender. Another mistake is not browning the chicken enough; ensure it’s nicely seared for better flavor and texture. Finally, don’t skip the cheese-melting step – stir until it’s wonderfully creamy!

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

This comforting cheesy chicken broccoli orzo is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a few simple accompaniments. For a fresh contrast, I love serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. It cuts through the richness of the cheesy pasta perfectly. Another fantastic option for cheesy chicken broccoli orzo side dishes is some crusty garlic bread—perfect for soaking up any extra sauce! If you’re looking for a lighter touch, steamed asparagus or a simple side of roasted cherry tomatoes also complement the flavors wonderfully. It’s versatile enough for any occasion!

Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

When you’re enjoying a serving of this delicious cheesy chicken broccoli orzo, here’s a breakdown of what you’re getting. It’s a hearty meal packed with flavor and good nutrients!

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 750mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

This dish is absolutely perfect for cheesy chicken broccoli orzo meal prep, making your weeknights even easier. Once the meal is cooked, let it cool down completely before you store it. This is important to prevent condensation, which can make leftovers soggy. Transfer the cooled orzo into airtight containers. You can store these in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, the best way to reheat is gently. Place a serving in a microwave-safe dish and add a splash of milk or chicken broth – about a tablespoon should do it. Stir it around a bit before microwaving. This helps restore that wonderful creamy texture that makes cheesy chicken broccoli orzo so irresistible.

Variations of Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo You Can Try

One of the things I love most about this dish is how adaptable it is! You can easily tailor this cheesy chicken broccoli orzo to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. If you’re looking for cheesy chicken broccoli orzo healthy variations, you can certainly make some swaps. For instance, using rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breast or thighs saves a ton of time and adds a lovely depth of flavor. Another great idea is to experiment with different cheeses. While cheddar is fantastic, try adding some Monterey Jack for extra meltiness or even a touch of smoked Gouda for a richer, smokier note. For a vegetarian twist, simply omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or extra broccoli florets. You could even add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sautéing stage for a little heat!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

What is Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo?

What is cheesy chicken broccoli orzo? It’s a comforting, one-pan pasta dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and orzo pasta in a rich, creamy, and cheesy sauce. It’s the ultimate quick weeknight dinner, designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort.

How do I make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo?

To make cheesy chicken broccoli orzo, you’ll start by browning diced chicken in a skillet. Then, sauté onions and garlic, toast the orzo, and add chicken broth and milk. Stir in broccoli and cook until the orzo is tender. Finally, return the chicken to the pan and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and creamy. It’s a straightforward process that yields incredible results!

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, you absolutely can! If you opt for frozen broccoli, simply add it to the skillet along with the orzo and broth. You might need to extend the cooking time by a minute or two to ensure the broccoli is tender and bright green. It’s a convenient swap that still delivers great flavor for your cheesy chicken broccoli orzo.

What kind of chicken is best for this dish?

For this cheesy chicken broccoli orzo, both chicken breast and thighs work wonderfully. Thighs tend to be a bit more forgiving and stay juicier, while breasts offer a leaner option. If you’re really pressed for time, feel free to use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken; just shred it and add it in during the last step with the cheese.

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