Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a creamy, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and soft orzo pasta, all enveloped in a cheesy, velvety sauce. This easy-to-make meal is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a flavorful, satisfying dish the whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and healthy vegetables. The combination of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and soft orzo pasta creates a hearty and satisfying meal that everyone can enjoy. The mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses melt together beautifully to create a rich, smooth sauce that coats everything perfectly. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a guaranteed family favorite!
Ingredients
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced
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1 cup orzo pasta
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2 cups broccoli florets
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1/2 cup heavy cream
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Cook orzo according to package instructions. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot to blanch.
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While the pasta and broccoli cook, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced, cooked chicken and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
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Add heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
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Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
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Add the cooked orzo and broccoli to the skillet and toss everything to combine.
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Serve immediately and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cooking Time: 10 minutes
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Total Time: 20 minutes
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Servings: 4 servings
Variations
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Add extra veggies: You can add more vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers to make the dish even more nutritious.
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Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to give the dish a little kick.
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Use different cheese: If you don’t have mozzarella or Parmesan, you can substitute with other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or fontina for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: To reheat, warm the dish in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, fusilli, or penne.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Just cook the orzo and broccoli when you’re ready to assemble and serve.
3. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the skillet.
4. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
5. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can skip the chicken and add extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or chickpeas to make it a vegetarian dish.
6. How do I keep the dish from being too dry?
If the dish seems dry, add more heavy cream or a little milk to the sauce. Stir until smooth and creamy.
7. Can I add a different protein instead of chicken?
Yes, you can use cooked turkey, sausage, or even tofu for a different protein option.
8. How do I prevent the orzo from getting mushy?
Be sure to follow the package instructions for cooking the orzo, and add the broccoli in the last 2 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking the pasta.
9. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the dish for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk.
10. Can I use low-fat cream or milk?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream or milk, though it might affect the richness of the sauce. For the creamiest result, heavy cream is recommended.
Conclusion
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is the perfect dish for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight dinner. The creamy, cheesy sauce and tender chicken pair perfectly with the bright, crisp broccoli and soft orzo pasta. It’s a flavorful, comforting meal that comes together in just 20 minutes and can be customized to fit your tastes. Whether you’re feeding your family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to satisfy!
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Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a creamy, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and soft orzo pasta in a rich, cheesy sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, delivering a hearty meal that’s packed with flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying dish that the whole family will love!
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Cook orzo according to package instructions. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot to blanch.
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While the pasta and broccoli cook, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced, cooked chicken and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
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Add heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
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Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
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Add the cooked orzo and broccoli to the skillet and toss everything to combine.
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Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
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Variations: Add extra vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers for added nutrition. For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. You can also substitute the mozzarella and Parmesan with cheddar, gouda, or fontina for a different flavor.
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of milk or cream if needed, or microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
