Let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite comfort foods: my cheesy chicken broccoli orzo recipe! It’s creamy, dreamy, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a quick meal prep for the busy days ahead. I remember the first time I made this dish—my kitchen was filled with the most mouthwatering aroma of garlic and melting cheese, and honestly, I couldn’t wait to dig in! The combination of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and fluffy orzo pasta all swimming in a cheesy sauce is simply irresistible. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making this over and over again!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making my cheesy chicken broccoli orzo recipe shine! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup orzo pasta – This little pasta is just perfect for soaking up all that cheesy goodness.
- 2 cups broccoli florets – Fresh or frozen, they add a vibrant crunch and nutrients!
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced – I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken for ease and tenderness.
- 2 cups chicken broth – This adds a savory depth of flavor; homemade is best if you have it!
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Trust me, the more, the merrier when it comes to cheese!
- 1/2 cup heavy cream – For that luscious creaminess that ties everything together.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – A dash of healthy fat to help cook the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Because garlic makes everything better, right?
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for bringing out all the flavors!
With these ingredients at hand, you’re set to create a dish that’s not just cheesy but also hearty and satisfying!
How to Prepare Instructions
Cooking the Orzo
Let’s start with the orzo! Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil, then add 1 cup of orzo pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until it’s al dente. Trust me, you don’t want it mushy! Once it’s cooked, drain it well and set it aside. I like to drizzle a little olive oil on it to keep it from sticking, but that’s totally optional.
Preparing the Chicken and Broccoli
Now, grab a large skillet and heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in 1 pound of diced chicken breast and cook it for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s no longer pink. This is where your kitchen starts smelling amazing! Next, add in 2 cups of broccoli florets and let them cook for another 3-4 minutes until they’re tender yet still crisp. Everything should be sizzling and looking colorful!
Combining Ingredients
Alright, it’s time to bring everything together! Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and let it come to a gentle simmer. This will create a lovely base for your cheesy sauce. Now, stir in the cooked orzo, 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix everything together until the cheese has melted and the dish is evenly coated in that creamy goodness.
Final Steps
To finish, let the mixture simmer for a couple of minutes to meld all those delicious flavors. If you want an extra cheesy experience, you can sprinkle some more cheddar on top and cover it for a minute to let it melt beautifully. Once it’s all heated through and the cheese is gooey, it’s ready to serve! Trust me, you’ll want to dig in right away for that perfect cheesy bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation, ready in just 30 minutes!
- Creamy texture that makes every bite feel indulgent.
- Packed with protein from chicken and cheese to keep you satisfied.
- Vibrant broccoli adds nutrients and a pop of color to your plate.
- Perfect for meal prep—just reheat leftovers for a delicious lunch or dinner!
- Customizable—add your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch.
Tips for Success
To make sure your cheesy chicken broccoli orzo recipe turns out absolutely perfect, here are some handy tips! First, don’t overcook the orzo—aim for that al dente texture so it holds its shape and doesn’t become mushy. When cooking the chicken, make sure it’s evenly diced for consistent cooking; this way, you won’t end up with some pieces undercooked and others overdone. If you like a bit of extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the mix. And remember, let the dish sit for a couple of minutes before serving—it helps the flavors meld beautifully. Enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Nutritional Information
When you’re enjoying my cheesy chicken broccoli orzo recipe, it’s nice to know what’s going into your delicious meal! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Sugar: 2g
These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used. It’s a satisfying meal that balances indulgence with nutrition!
FAQ Section
You might have a few burning questions about my cheesy chicken broccoli orzo recipe, and I’m here to help! Here are some of the most common ones I get:
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While orzo is my favorite for this dish, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like macaroni or ditalini. Just keep an eye on the cooking times!
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, it is! You can freeze the cheesy chicken broccoli orzo in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.
What can I add to make it spicier?
If you like a kick, try adding some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during the cooking process. You can also mix in a bit of hot sauce just before serving for an extra zing!
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Definitely! Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or your favorite plant-based protein, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You’ll still get that creamy and cheesy goodness!
How can I make it healthier?
You can lighten it up by reducing the amount of cheese or using low-fat cheese and cream. Adding more veggies, like spinach or bell peppers, can also boost the nutrition without sacrificing flavor!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? No problem! To store your cheesy chicken broccoli orzo, simply transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days—perfect for quick lunches or dinners. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up and keep it creamy. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. It’s just as delicious the second time around!
Serving Suggestions
To make your meal truly special, consider pairing my cheesy chicken broccoli orzo with a light side salad. A simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich flavors beautifully! You could also serve it alongside some garlic bread—because who can resist that buttery, garlicky goodness? If you’re looking for something a bit heartier, a side of roasted vegetables or a warm, crusty baguette would also be fantastic. Trust me, these sides will elevate your dinner and make it feel like a feast!
Print
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Recipe: 5 Steps to Bliss
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy and cheesy dish featuring chicken, broccoli, and orzo pasta.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until no longer pink.
- Add broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the cooked orzo, heavy cream, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook until the cheese melts and everything is heated through.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quicker meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: cheesy chicken broccoli orzo recipe
