Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo
A warm, comforting one-pot meal combining tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and creamy cheeses enveloped in fluffy orzo pasta.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1.5 cups broccoli florets, chopped small
- 0.75 cup milk or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
- Optional: 0.25 tsp paprika
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken to the pan, season with salt and black pepper, and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Melt the remaining tablespoon of butter in the same skillet.
- Add the diced onion and cook for about 3 minutes until tender.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Cooking
- Stir in the orzo pasta and let it toast in the pan for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the chopped broccoli florets, cover again, and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, and stir in the milk, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined and the cheeses have melted.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot.
Notes
For the best experience, ensure your chicken is evenly diced and consider marinating it for added flavor. Choose fresh broccoli, and adjust the creaminess by changing the amount of cheese and milk to fit your preference. Always taste and adjust seasoning towards the end.