Why Make This Recipe
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a delightful comfort food that combines creamy cheese, tender chicken, and nutritious broccoli. It’s an easy, one-pot dish that makes mealtime simple and satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a warm, hearty dinner for the family, this recipe offers both flavor and convenience. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some vegetables!
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- ½ medium onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or thawed frozen)
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cups cooked (shredded chicken, e.g., rotisserie)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (preferably sharp)
- Salt & pepper to taste
Directions:
- Heat oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions for 3–4 minutes.
- Add broccoli; cook for 2 more minutes.
- Stir in garlic, seasoning, and orzo; toast for 30 seconds.
- Pour in broth, cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cook uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring often.
- Add chicken and stir to heat through.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper. Let sit for 2–3 minutes to thicken.
How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo can be served right from the skillet. For an appealing presentation, scoop it into bowls and garnish with extra cheddar cheese or fresh parsley. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo
If you have leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if it looks dry.
Tips to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo
- For extra flavor, try using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist; mozzarella or gouda also work well.
- Add extra vegetables like peas or spinach for more nutrition and color.
Variation
You can easily modify this recipe by using a different protein, such as shrimp or turkey. For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with chickpeas and use vegetable broth.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works great in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the skillet.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish a day in advance. Just reheat it on the stove with a little extra chicken broth to loosen it up.
Is there a gluten-free option for orzo?
Yes! You can find gluten-free orzo made from rice or corn. Just check the package instructions for cooking times.
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo
Ingredients
Method
- Heat oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions for 3–4 minutes.
- Add broccoli; cook for 2 more minutes.
- Stir in garlic, seasoning, and orzo; toast for 30 seconds.
- Pour in broth, cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cook uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring often.
- Add chicken and stir to heat through.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper. Let sit for 2–3 minutes to thicken.