Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo: A Delicious One-Pot Meal Recipe

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a delightful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table. As I prepared this recipe, I couldn’t help but reminisce about family gatherings where creamy, cheesy meals were the highlight of our evenings. This dish not only combines tender chicken and vibrant broccoli but also features orzo pasta, which adds a unique texture that elevates the entire experience. People love Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo for its rich flavors and creamy consistency, making it a perfect choice for both busy weeknights and special occasions. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to whip up, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Orzo

1. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil over medium-high heat. This will be the base for our orzo, adding flavor right from the start.
2. Once the broth is boiling, add 1 cup of orzo pasta. Stir it gently to prevent sticking.
3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the orzo simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until it’s al dente. Stir occasionally to keep it from clumping together.
4. Once cooked, remove the saucepan from heat and set it aside. Do not drain the broth; we want to keep that delicious flavor in the orzo.

Cooking the Chicken and Broccoli

1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. This will help us sauté the onions and garlic, creating a flavorful base for our dish.
2. Add 1 small diced onion to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
3. Next, add 2 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let the garlic burn.
4. Now, toss in the 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets. Stir everything together and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp.
5. If you’re using leftover cooked chicken, add it to the skillet now. If you’re cooking raw chicken, you can add it at this stage, cooking until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break it up into bite-sized pieces as it cooks.

Combining Ingredients

1. Once the chicken is cooked through, it’s time to combine everything. Pour the cooked orzo (with its broth) into the skillet with the chicken and broccoli.
2. Stir everything together gently, ensuring that the orzo, chicken, and broccoli are well mixed.
3. Now, it’s time to add the cheese! Sprinkle in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and everything is creamy and well combined.
4. Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. If you like a little heat, add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes at this stage. Stir well to incorporate all the flavors.

Final Touches and Serving

1. Once everything is combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. The dish should be creamy and cheesy, with the orzo absorbing the flavors of the chicken broth and cheese.
2. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a lovely herbal note to the dish.
3. Serve the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo warm, either in bowls or on plates. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.
4. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if it seems too dry.

Tips and Variations

• If you want to add more veggies, consider including peas, spinach, or bell peppers. Just

Conclusion:

In summary, this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to whip up a comforting and delicious meal that the whole family will love. The creamy, cheesy goodness combined with tender chicken and vibrant broccoli creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients. Plus, the orzo adds a delightful twist that makes it stand out from your typical pasta dishes. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this dish with a light side salad or some crusty garlic bread to soak up all that cheesy sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, or even swapping out the chicken for shrimp or a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo a try and experience the joy it brings to your dinner table. Once you do, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the love for this delightful dish together!

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