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Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

A comforting one-pot dish combining tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy orzo, all draped in melted cheddar—perfect for family gatherings and busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup orzo pasta Small, rice-shaped pasta that absorbs the creamy sauce perfectly.
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced Choose high-quality chicken for the best flavor and tenderness.
  • 2 cups broccoli florets Opt for fresh for a vibrant crunch; frozen can work too.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic adds depth; pre-minced can be used.
  • 1 cup chicken broth Homemade or store-bought for enriching flavor.
  • 1 cup milk (whole or 2%) For creamy consistency; can substitute with almond or oat milk.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Sharp cheddar for irresistible gooeyness.
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika Adds a touch of sweetness and color.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Use extra virgin for best flavor.
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) Adds a hint of heat if desired.
Optional Garnishes
  • Fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.
  • Extra shredded cheese For garnish.
  • Crushed red pepper For garnish.

Method
 

Cooking the Chicken
  1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken seasoned with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cook for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Sautéing the Garlic and Orzo
  1. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in orzo to coat in the oil, toasting lightly for about 1 minute.
Adding Liquids
  1. Pour in chicken broth and milk. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Adding Broccoli
  1. Stir in broccoli florets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until broccoli is tender but still bright green.
Stirring in Cheese
  1. Lower the heat and add shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until fully melted and the mixture is creamy.
Combining Chicken and Finishing Up
  1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing thoroughly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serving
  1. Garnish with chopped parsley, additional cheese, or red pepper flakes. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add a splash of milk when reheating to restore creaminess.