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One-Pot Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo Recipe

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

4.9 from 24 reviews

This One-Pot Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo is a comforting and flavorful meal combining tender chicken, creamy orzo pasta, fresh broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce. It’s an easy, all-in-one skillet recipe perfect for a weeknight dinner, offering a delicious balance of protein, veggies, and cheesy goodness.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasonings

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

Vegetables

  • 1/2 cup diced carrots
  • 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets

Pasta and Broth

  • 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta (uncooked)
  • 3 cups chicken bouillon mixed with water or 3 cups chicken broth

Cheese Sauce

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

Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken: Toss the bite-sized chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika until evenly coated, ensuring each piece is well seasoned.
  2. Brown the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1/2 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
  3. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1/2 tablespoon butter. Add diced carrots and onions and cook for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and caramelized. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  4. Toast the Orzo: Add the uncooked orzo to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir constantly for 1 minute, allowing the orzo to toast lightly and develop a nutty aroma.
  5. Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Pour in the chicken bouillon mixture or broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to incorporate full flavor. Stir in the broccoli florets. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 11–12 minutes until the orzo is tender but still slightly firm and the broccoli is cooked through.
  6. Make the Cheese Sauce: Remove the lid and slowly stir in the heavy cream, followed by the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Stir continuously until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  7. Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and gently fold it into the cheesy orzo and broccoli mixture. Heat for an additional 1–2 minutes to warm through, then serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use fresh grated cheese for better melting and flavor compared to pre-shredded cheeses that contain anti-caking agents.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt, depending on the saltiness of your broth or bouillon.
  • You can substitute chicken broth for the bouillon mixture for a richer flavor.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat if desired.
  • For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
  • Make sure not to overcook orzo to maintain slight firmness (al dente) for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: one pot dinner, cheesy chicken orzo, broccoli orzo, easy chicken dinner, creamy orzo recipe, weeknight dinner, skillet meal, healthy comfort food

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