Description
This Easy Spring Dinner Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a creamy, comforting one-pan meal featuring tender shredded chicken, fresh broccoli, and tender orzo pasta all combined in a cheesy sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels both hearty and fresh.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Aromatics
- ½ medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or thawed frozen)
Fats and Oils
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper to taste
Liquids
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Protein and Cheese
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (e.g., rotisserie)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Prepare Aromatics: Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, until softened and translucent.
- Add Broccoli: Add broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes to tenderize slightly.
- Toast Orzo and Garlic: Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and orzo pasta. Toast the mixture for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly to release flavors.
- Add Liquids: Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Simmer Pasta: Cook uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to allow the orzo to absorb liquid and cook through.
- Incorporate Chicken: Stir in the cooked shredded chicken until heated through and evenly combined.
- Add Cheese: Remove skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts, creating a creamy sauce.
- Season and Rest: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the dish sit for 2 to 3 minutes to thicken before serving.
Notes
- Use sharp cheddar for a richer flavor; mild cheddar will work but has a less pronounced cheese taste.
- You can substitute broccoli with other vegetables like spinach or peas if preferred.
- Rotisserie chicken is convenient, but leftover cooked chicken works perfectly as well.
- Stir frequently while simmering to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Adjust the cream amount if you prefer a lighter or thicker sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cheesy Chicken Orzo, Chicken Broccoli Pasta, Easy Dinner, One-Pan Meal, Creamy Orzo, Quick Chicken Dinner
