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Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Recipe

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3.9 from 6 reviews

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a comforting one-skillet meal featuring tender cooked chicken, fresh broccoli, and orzo pasta all simmered together in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This easy-to-make dish combines a nutty, toasted orzo base with a velvety blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheese, accented by sautéed onions and garlic for a rich, satisfying flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, it delivers warmth and heartiness in every bite with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Skillet Base

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped
  • 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped small

Liquids & Seasonings

  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper

Cheese

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Start with a cozy sizzle. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and butter together until the butter melts and foams slightly. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent, allowing the flavors to develop.
  2. Add the garlic and orzo. Stir in the minced garlic and orzo pasta. Toast the orzo for 2–3 minutes, stirring often, to bring out a nutty richness in the dish.
  3. Add the chicken and broccoli. Toss in the chopped cooked chicken and small broccoli florets. Stir well to evenly distribute the ingredients with the orzo.
  4. Pour in the liquids. Slowly add the chicken broth and milk to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
  5. Cheese it up! Stir in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash more milk to achieve desired consistency.
  6. Serve and savor. Spoon the warm, cheesy orzo into bowls. Optionally top with additional Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper. Serve immediately for a hearty, melty meal.

Notes

  • Use cooked chicken (rotisserie or leftovers) to save prep time.
  • Keep broccoli florets small to ensure quick and even cooking.
  • If you want a creamier consistency, add extra milk gradually after adding cheese.
  • This dish can be customized with your favorite cheese types or additional herbs like thyme or parsley.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently with a splash of milk.

Find it online: https://dishcooks.com/cheesy-chicken-broccoli-orzo-recipe/