Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo: Creamy One-Pan Dinner (Print Version)
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a creamy, comforting one-pan dinner. Tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and orzo pasta in a rich, cheesy sauce for an easy weeknight meal.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ Savory Start & Aromatics
01 -
1 tbsp olive oil
02 -
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
03 -
1/2 yellow onion, diced
04 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
05 -
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
06 -
1/2 tsp paprika
07 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Creamy Orzo Core
08 -
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
09 -
1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
10 -
1/2 cup heavy cream
→ Vibrant Veg & Cheesy Finish
11 -
3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
12 -
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
13 -
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Bright Finish & Garnish
14 -
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
15 -
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces, and cook for 4-5 minutes until browned on all sides. Remove chicken and set aside.
02 -
Add 1/2 yellow onion to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in 2 cloves garlic, 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 -
Return the chicken to the skillet. Pour in 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most liquid is absorbed. This step is key to developing the creamy base of your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo: Creamy One-Pan Dinner.
04 -
Uncover the skillet. Stir in 3 cups broccoli florets and 1/2 cup heavy cream. Continue to cook, uncovered, for another 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
05 -
Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth. For the ultimate Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo: Creamy One-Pan Dinner, ensure the cheeses are fully incorporated.
06 -
Stir in 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. Garnish with 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped. Enjoy your homemade Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo: Creamy One-Pan Dinner warm.
# Notes:
01 -
Feel free to swap chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor, or use frozen mixed vegetables instead of just broccoli for added variety.
02 -
Store any leftover Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed to restore creaminess.
03 -
Serve this hearty one-pan meal on its own, or with a simple side salad and crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce.
04 -
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic for a subtle kick, or a tablespoon of cream cheese along with the heavy cream for an even richer sauce.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet or Dutch oven
02 -
Cutting board
03 -
Chef's knife
04 -
Measuring cups
05 -
Measuring spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 647 kcal
Total Fat: 30 g
Total Carbohydrate: 40 g
Protein: 51 g