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One-Pot Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo Recipe

One-Pot Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo Recipe
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★★★★★

5 from 23 reviews

This One-Pot Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo is a comforting and easy-to-make meal combining tender chicken, creamy orzo pasta, fresh broccoli, and a rich blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. The dish features savory seasonings and vegetables all cooked in one pan, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner packed with flavor and nutrition.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasonings

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 2 tablespoons butter, divided
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Vegetables

  • 1 medium carrot, diced
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets

Pasta and Broth

  • 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
  • 4 cups chicken bouillon mixed with water or chicken broth (equivalent to 4 cups liquid)

Dairy and Cheese

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the bite-sized chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika until they are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
  2. Brown the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon butter and melt it. Add the diced carrots and yellow onion and cook for approximately 7 minutes until softened and caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional 1 minute to release their aroma.
  4. Toast the Orzo: Add the uncooked orzo pasta to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir constantly for 1 minute to lightly toast the orzo, enhancing its nutty flavor.
  5. Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Pour in the prepared chicken bouillon and water mixture (or chicken broth), scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits. Stir in the fresh broccoli florets. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the skillet and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 11 to 12 minutes until the orzo is tender but still slightly firm and the broccoli is bright and cooked through.
  6. Make the Cheese Sauce: Remove the lid and gradually stir in the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
  7. Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet and gently fold them into the cheesy orzo and broccoli mixture. Heat everything through for 1 to 2 minutes. Serve immediately for the best creamy flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use chicken broth instead of chicken bouillon and water for more intense flavor.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
  • Feel free to swap cheddar cheese with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different cheese profile.
  • Make sure not to overcook the orzo; it should be creamy yet maintain a slight firmness to avoid mushiness.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently with a splash of milk to retain creaminess.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot dinner, cheesy chicken orzo, broccoli pasta, easy weeknight meal, creamy orzo, chicken skillet recipe

Find it online: https://zarameals.com/one-pot-cheesy-chicken-and-broccoli-orzo-recipe-3/