Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Creamy One-Pan Dinner (Print Version)
Enjoy a creamy, cheesy chicken broccoli orzo dinner. This easy one-pan recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, packed with flavor and simple to make.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ The Hearty Core
01 -
1 tbsp olive oil
02 -
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
03 -
1/2 yellow onion, finely diced
04 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
05 -
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
06 -
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
07 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ The Creamy Orzo Base
08 -
1 1/2 cups uncooked orzo pasta
09 -
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
10 -
1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
11 -
1 cup broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces
→ The Cheesy Finish & Freshness
12 -
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
13 -
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
14 -
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, seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
02 -
Reduce heat to medium. Add 1/2 yellow onion, finely diced, to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning, and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
03 -
Stir in 1 1/2 cups uncooked orzo pasta, ensuring it's well coated. Pour in 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth and 1/2 cup milk. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is the base for your delicious Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo – Creamy & One-Pan Dinner.
04 -
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces. Cover and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
05 -
Remove from heat. Stir in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. This step brings together the "Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo – Creamy & One-Pan Dinner."
06 -
Let the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo – Creamy & One-Pan Dinner rest for 5 minutes to thicken slightly. Garnish with 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, before serving warm. Enjoy this comforting and easy meal!
# Notes:
01 -
Feel free to swap chicken breast for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra flavor, or use spinach instead of broccoli for a different green.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk.
03 -
For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic and seasonings.
04 -
For an even richer dish, use heavy cream instead of milk, or stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese with the other cheeses.
# 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: 534 kcal
Total Fat: 18 g
Total Carbohydrate: 47 g
Protein: 43 g