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–+ servings
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo: Creamy One-Pot Comfort Food

This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a comforting one-pot meal that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheddar, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Orzo Base
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta This small pasta shape serves as the perfect base.
  • 2 cups Chicken Tender chicken adds protein; rotisserie chicken can be used.
  • 2 cups Broccoli Fresh or frozen, broccoli brightens the dish.
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Opt for freshly grated cheese.
  • 1 cup Cream or Half-and-Half Enriches the sauce without sacrificing creaminess.
  • to taste Seasonings (salt, pepper, optional red pepper flakes) Adjust to create your desired level of heat.
Optional Add-Ins
  • 1 cup Mushrooms Sautéed mushrooms make a wonderful addition.
  • 2 cups Spinach Fresh spinach adds nutrients and color.

Equipment

  • large pot or skillet

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Gather all your ingredients for the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo.
  2. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and cut the broccoli into small florets if using fresh.
  3. In a large pot or skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and sauté the chopped chicken for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
  4. Stir in the broccoli florets and the orzo pasta, then pour in enough chicken broth to cover the pasta.
  5. Increase the heat to high and bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to medium-low and let simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes.
  6. Stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking; it’s ready when tender and has absorbed most liquid.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese and cream until the cheese melts.
  8. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for the best melting texture. When using frozen broccoli, ensure it’s fully thawed and drained.

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