Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the enticing aroma of sautéed chicken and melting cheese filled the air, instantly transporting me to my favorite family dinners. This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo brings the comfort of home at the end of a long day, merging tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheddar into a satisfying one-pot meal. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a tasty dish ready to please palates of all ages—no one will believe it’s a quick dinner! Plus, the minimal cleanup means you can enjoy more time relishing those precious moments around the table. If you’re craving a flavorful, customizable recipe that fits your weeknight routine, get ready to fall in love with this delicious concoction. What variations will you add to make it your own? Why is this recipe a must-try? Simplicity reigns supreme in this one-pot wonder, allowing anyone to whip up a meal in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights. Flavor-packed with creamy cheddar and vibrant broccoli, it’s a delightful combination that satisfies all ages. Customizable to your taste, swap in different proteins or veggies as you please—try adding sautéed mushrooms for an extra twist! Minimal cleanup means you can enjoy more family time rather than scrubbing pots and pans. For more comforting meal ideas, check out my recipe for Cheesy Chicken Spinach or Broccoli Chicken Penne. You’re going to love this recipe! Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Ingredients • Get ready to create this comforting dish! For the Orzo Base Orzo Pasta – This small pasta shape serves as the perfect base, providing a hearty texture to the dish. Chicken – Tender chicken adds protein; using rotisserie chicken can cut down your prep time significantly. Broccoli – Fresh or frozen, broccoli not only brightens the dish but also packs in vital nutrients. For the Creamy Sauce Cheddar Cheese – Opt for freshly grated cheese for that melty, creamy goodness that pulls everything together. Cream (or Half-and-Half) – This enriches the sauce; half-and-half can be a lighter alternative without sacrificing creaminess. Seasonings (salt, pepper, optional red pepper flakes) – Elevate the flavors; adjust red pepper flakes to create your preferred level of heat in this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo. Optional Add-Ins Mushrooms – Sautéed mushrooms make a wonderful addition for an earthy flavor. Spinach – Fresh spinach can easily be tossed in for extra nutrients and color. With these ingredients gathered, you’re just a few steps away from a nourishing family favorite that’s sure to impress! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Step 1: Prepare Ingredients Start by gathering all your ingredients for the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and cut the broccoli into small florets if using fresh. If you’re using frozen broccoli, simply thaw it and drain off any excess moisture. This will ensure you have everything ready for a seamless cooking experience. Step 2: Cook Chicken In a large pot or skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and sauté the chopped chicken for about 5-7 minutes, until it is golden brown and cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. Once done, the chicken should be tender and no longer pink in the center, making it perfect for combining with orzo. Step 3: Add Broccoli and Orzo Next, stir in the broccoli florets and the orzo pasta into the pot with the cooked chicken. Pour in enough chicken broth or water to cover the pasta completely, usually about 3 cups. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, watching closely as it heats up and the orzo starts to soften. Step 4: Simmer Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered for about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pot. You’ll know it’s ready when the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, creating a creamy base for your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo. Step 5: Incorporate Cheese and Cream Remove the pot from the heat, and stir in the freshly grated cheddar cheese and the cream or half-and-half. Mix thoroughly until the cheese melts and blends seamlessly into the dish, creating a rich, creamy texture. Taste, and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to enhance the flavor of your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo. Step 6: Serve Serve your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo immediately while it’s warm and creamy. You can garnish with additional cheese or sprinkle fresh herbs on top for an extra burst of flavor. This delightful one-pot meal is ready to enjoy with family or friends, offering a comforting dinner option that everyone will love! What to Serve with Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Create a wholesome dining experience by complementing your main dish with the perfect sides. Garlic Bread: This buttery, savory classic pairs perfectly, allowing you to soak up the creamy sauce with each delicious bite. Crisp Green Salad: A refreshing, crunchy salad adds a light contrast that balances the richness of the orzo. Toss with a tangy vinaigrette to brighten the meal. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned, caramelized veggies enhance the meal with additional nutrients while providing a delightful texture. Try carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers! Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus brings a pop of color and a fresh taste, making for a lovely side that complements the flavors beautifully. Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad adds a sweet touch to your meal, creating a harmonious balance with the savory orzo. Use seasonal fruits for the best flavor! Sparkling Lemonade: A glass of refreshing sparkling lemonade can be the perfect drink to cleanse your palate between bites, enhancing the overall dining experience. Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: For those seeking extra comfort, these rich, creamy potatoes can take the meal to the next level, making it even cozier. Chocolate Chip Cookies: End on a sweet note with warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies, delighting everyone’s taste buds after a hearty meal. How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess in your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo. Visual Check: Always check the visual texture; if it appears too dry after reheating, add a bit of liquid to achieve that creamy consistency again. Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Variations Feel free to get creative with this dish and tailor it to your taste buds! Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a hearty and satisfying plant-based dish. It’s a great way to still enjoy all the creaminess without the meat! Cheese Twist: Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella for a milder flavor, or pepper jack for an extra kick. Mixing cheeses can elevate the whole profile of this comforting orzo. Add Extra Veggies: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even bell peppers for more freshness and nutrients. Each veggie brings its own special flair to the dish, enriching every bite. Gluten-Free Orzo: For a gluten-free version, swap the orzo pasta with gluten-free alternatives. There are great options available that cook up just as nicely! Spicy Kick: If you love a little heat, add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. This gives your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo a nice zing that will wake up your palate! Creamy Dream: For an even creamier sauce, mix in a dollop of cream cheese along with the cheddar. This twist makes it incredibly lush and comforting. Herb Infusion: Infuse your dish with fresh herbs like thyme or basil. Adding them at the end creates a fragrant layer of flavor that truly brings everything together. Brothy Goodness: For a soupier version, increase the amount of broth you use and serve it in bowls. It’s like a cozy orzo soup that’s perfect for chilly evenings. These variations not only keep the recipe exciting but also allow you to cater to some dietary preferences. Enjoy experimenting! For more comforting meal inspirations, don’t forget to check out my recipe for Balsamic Glazed Chicken or try the delightful flavors in Fiery Chicken Ramen. Make Ahead Options Preparing your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time on busy weeknights! You can chop the chicken and broccoli, and even cook the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Store these components in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can cook the orzo without adding the cheese and cream, refrigerating it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the cooked chicken and orzo mixture on the stovetop, adding the cheese and cream just before serving to ensure the sauce stays creamy and delicious. This makes for an effortless meal that tastes just as good as when fresh! Expert Tips for the Best Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Fresh Cheese Rules: Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for the best melting texture. Pre-packaged shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can affect creaminess. Moisture Management: When using frozen broccoli, ensure it’s fully thawed and drained. Excess water can lead to a soupy texture in your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo. Broth Benefits: For richer flavor, use chicken broth instead of water when cooking the orzo. The broth infuses the pasta with savory goodness. Protein Swap: If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with cubed tofu or your favorite plant-based protein, ensuring a filling meal without meat. Season It Well: Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to enhance flavor. Taste as you go to find the perfect balance for your family. Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Recipe FAQs How do I select the right broccoli for my Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo? Absolutely! When choosing broccoli, look for vibrant green florets without any dark spots or yellowing. The stems should be firm and not too woody. Fresh broccoli will provide the best texture and flavor; however, if you opt for frozen, ensure it is fully thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture in your dish. How should I store leftover Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo? Very simple! Allow the orzo to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream for that creamy texture. Can I freeze Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo? Definitely! To freeze, portion the cooled orzo into airtight containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat with a splash of liquid to restore creaminess. What if my orzo is too dry after reheating? No worries! If your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo appears too dry after reheating, just add a little chicken broth or cream to bring back its luscious, inviting consistency. Stir it in gently over low heat until it’s creamy and delightful again. Can I make this recipe dairy-free? Absolutely! For a dairy-free Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo, substitute the cheddar cheese and cream with suitable non-dairy alternatives like cashew cream or almond milk cheese. To thicken the sauce, you can also use cornstarch. Just mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then stir it into the dish while it’s heating. How can I adjust the heat level in this recipe? Very helpful question! If you’d like to spice things up, feel free to add more red pepper flakes. Start with the recommended quantity and then taste; you can always add more if you prefer more heat! On the other hand, if someone in your family isn’t a fan of spice, you can easily skip the red pepper flakes altogether for a milder flavor. Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo: Creamy One-Pot Comfort Food Enjoy a quick and delicious Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo that brings the comfort of home in under 30 minutes. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 600 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Orzo Base2 cups orzo pasta2 cups chicken chopped into bite-sized pieces2 cups broccoli fresh or frozen, cut into small floretsFor the Creamy Sauce1 cup cheddar cheese freshly grated1 cup cream or half-and-halfto taste seasonings (salt, pepper, optional red pepper flakes)Optional Add-Ins1 cup mushrooms sautéed1 cup spinach fresh Equipment large pot or skillet Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli OrzoStart by gathering all your ingredients for the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and cut the broccoli into small florets if using fresh.In a large pot or skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and sauté the chopped chicken for about 5-7 minutes until it is golden brown and cooked through.Next, stir in the broccoli florets and the orzo pasta into the pot with the cooked chicken. Pour in enough chicken broth or water to cover the pasta completely (about 3 cups).Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered for about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally.Remove the pot from the heat, and stir in the freshly grated cheddar cheese and cream or half-and-half. Mix thoroughly until the cheese melts.Serve your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo immediately while it's warm and creamy, garnish with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 35gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg NotesFor a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with cubed tofu or your favorite plant-based protein. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
