Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

This cheesy chicken broccoli orzo combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and fresh broccoli all smothered in a creamy cheese sauce. It's the ultimate one-pan comfort meal that has become my weeknight dinner hero when I need something delicious that doesn't require hours in the kitchen.

I created this recipe during a particularly busy season when my family needed quick nutritious meals. What started as a pantry cleanout experiment has become our most requested dinner, especially when we need some cheesy comfort food that still packs in vegetables.

Ingredients

• Orzo pasta: Absorbs flavors beautifully and creates a risotto like texture without all the stirring
• Boneless skinless chicken breast: Diced small cooks quickly and evenly for tender bites
• Fresh broccoli florets: Add vibrant color nutrition and a slight crunch
• Garlic: Adds essential aromatic depth that elevates the entire dish
• Chicken broth: Creates a flavorful base for cooking the orzo
• Whole milk: Makes the sauce creamy without being too heavy
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Use good quality for the best melt and flavor
• Olive oil: For sautéing with its subtle fruity notes
• Paprika: Adds a touch of color and mild sweetness
• Red pepper flakes: Optional but add a wonderful warmth

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers but doesn't smoke. Add the diced chicken breast in a single layer to promote browning. Season with salt pepper and paprika then cook undisturbed for 2 minutes before stirring. Continue cooking for 3 4 more minutes until the chicken is golden on the outside and no longer pink inside. The chicken should register 165°F on a meat thermometer. Remove from the skillet and set aside covered to stay warm.

Create the Aromatic Base:

Using the same skillet with all those delicious chicken bits add the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it as garlic can go from perfect to bitter very quickly. Add the orzo pasta and stir continuously for about a minute to lightly toast it which enhances its nutty flavor and helps it maintain texture even when cooked in liquid.

Cook the Orzo:

Pour in the chicken broth and milk stirring immediately to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer not a full boil which would cause the milk to separate. Cook for 7 8 minutes uncovered stirring frequently to ensure even cooking and to prevent the orzo from clumping together. The orzo will begin to absorb the liquid and become tender.

Add Vegetables and Finish the Sauce:

Add the broccoli florets directly to the cooking orzo and gently press them into the liquid. Cook for another 3 4 minutes until the broccoli turns bright green and is tender crisp and the orzo is al dente. Reduce the heat to low before adding the shredded cheese in handfuls stirring after each addition until completely melted. This gradual addition prevents the cheese from clumping or becoming grainy.

Complete the Dish:

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with any accumulated juices. Gently fold everything together allowing the chicken to rewarm in the hot mixture for about a minute. Taste and adjust seasonings adding more salt pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. The consistency should be creamy but not soupy if too thick add a splash more milk.

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The broccoli is truly the star ingredient in my opinion. While many kids might typically push green vegetables aside they eagerly devour the broccoli in this dish because it soaks up all that cheesy goodness. My daughter who once declared war on anything green now specifically requests extra broccoli in her portion.

Make Ahead and Storage

This orzo dish keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. The flavors actually intensify overnight making it possibly even better the second day. When reheating add a small splash of milk and warm gently over medium low heat stirring frequently. You can also microwave individual portions covered with a damp paper towel to prevent drying. I do not recommend freezing this dish as the pasta texture significantly changes and the cheese sauce can separate.

Easy Substitutions

This recipe welcomes adaptations based on what you have available in your kitchen. Swap spinach kale or asparagus for the broccoli depending on the season. Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully as a time saving option just fold in the shredded meat at the final step. For a different flavor profile try Monterey Jack Gruyère or a combination of cheeses. Whole wheat orzo adds extra fiber while gluten free orzo makes this accessible for those with dietary restrictions. Chicken thighs can replace the breast meat for a richer flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy orzo dish in wide shallow bowls to showcase all the components. A simple side salad with a bright vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich main dish. For a complete meal experience pair with crusty garlic bread for dipping into the creamy sauce. For entertaining elevate this humble dish by serving it with roasted cherry tomatoes on the vine and a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts. This versatile recipe works equally well as a cozy family dinner or as the star of a casual dinner party.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with any small pasta like bow-ties or small shells, though cooking times may vary slightly.

→ How do I make this dish spicier?

To add spice, include extra red pepper flakes while cooking the garlic or as a garnish before serving.

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Frozen broccoli works well too. Simply thaw and drain excess water before adding it to the dish.

→ What cheese substitutes can I use?

You can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mild Gouda for a different flavor profile in place of cheddar.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, replace the chicken with mushrooms or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk to revive the creaminess.