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Looking for a comforting and satisfying meal that comes together quickly? This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo recipe is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy goodness with tender chicken and wholesome broccoli. It’s a one-pot meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo Recipe
- One-Pot Meal – Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
- Creamy & Cheesy – A rich cheddar cheese sauce coats every bite.
- Packed with Protein & Veggies – Chicken and broccoli make this a balanced dish.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Family-Friendly – A meal everyone will love!
Ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Breast | 2, diced | Boneless, skinless |
| Orzo Pasta | 1 ½ cups | Small pasta shape for creaminess |
| Broccoli Florets | 2 cups | Fresh or frozen |
| Cheddar Cheese | 1 ½ cups | Shredded, sharp cheddar recommended |
| Milk | 1 cup | Whole milk for creaminess |
| Chicken Broth | 2 ½ cups | Adds depth of flavor |
| Butter | 2 tbsp | For sautéing |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | Enhances flavor |
| Onion | ½ cup, diced | Optional, adds a savory base |
| Flour | 2 tbsp | Helps thicken the sauce |
| Salt & Pepper | To taste | Adjust seasoning as needed |
| Paprika | ½ tsp | Adds a slight smoky flavor |
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken and Aromatics
- Heat a large skillet or pot over medium heat and melt the butter.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and onion, cooking until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Orzo
- Sprinkle in the flour, stirring for about 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add the orzo pasta, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Let it cook for 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.
Step 3: Add Broccoli and Cheese
- Stir in the broccoli florets, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and pour in the milk.
- Slowly mix in the cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
Step 4: Season and Serve
- Add salt, pepper, and paprika to taste.
- Stir everything together until well combined.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
5 Tips for Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
- Cook Orzo Until Al Dente – Overcooking can make it mushy.
- Add Extra Veggies – Carrots, bell peppers, or spinach work great!
- Make it Creamier – Stir in a little heavy cream or extra cheese.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken – A great shortcut for an even quicker meal!
Variations to Try
- Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Gluten-Free – Swap orzo for a gluten-free pasta alternative.
- Extra Protein – Stir in cooked bacon or crumbled sausage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Just add it a few minutes earlier to ensure it cooks through.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish reheats well, making it a great meal-prep option.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes! Try Monterey Jack, Gouda, or a mix of cheeses for a different flavor.
Try This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo Tonight!
This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo Recipe is creamy, cheesy, and packed with comforting flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a hearty dish for the whole family, this recipe is sure to be a hit!
Enjoy and happy cooking!