Go Back
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

A creamy, comforting one-pan dish combining tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and fluffy orzo pasta in a rich cheddar cheese sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights.
Print Recipe Save to Pinterest
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 475
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast diced into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 cups broccoli florets cut into 1-inch pieces, fresh preferred
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth low-sodium preferred
  • 1 cup milk whole or 2%
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese freshly grated
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
  • extra shredded cheese for topping

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan (12-inch)
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Grater

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add orzo pasta and stir constantly for 1 minute to lightly toast.
  3. Pour in chicken broth and milk, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes, until orzo is nearly tender.
  4. Stir in broccoli florets and continue cooking for 3-4 minutes until broccoli is crisp-tender and orzo is fully cooked.
  5. Lower heat to lowest setting. Gradually stir in shredded cheddar cheese in two batches, allowing each to melt completely before adding more.
  6. Return cooked chicken to the skillet with any accumulated juices. Stir to combine and heat through. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra cheese before serving.

Notes

For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream. If the orzo thickens too much, loosen with additional milk or broth. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.