Go Back
–+ servings
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo – Creamy, Cheesy, and One-Pan Easy

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo – Easy, Creamy Bliss in One Pan

Course: Comfort Food
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo, comfort food, Easy Dinner, Family-Friendly, one-pan meal, Quick Meal
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 600kcal
Discover this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo – a creamy, one-pan dish that's simple and satisfying for busy weeknights.
Print Recipe

Equipment

  • large skillet

Ingredients

For the Base

  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Adds rich flavor for sautéing; any cooking oil like canola can work too.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Infuses creaminess and depth; swap with more olive oil for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 small Onion, diced Brings sweetness to the dish; yellow or white onion is perfect.
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced Elevates the flavor profile; can substitute with ½ teaspoon of garlic powder.

For the Pasta

  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Use small-shaped pasta like ditalini as a substitute.
  • 2 cups Cooked Chicken, chopped Leftover rotisserie chicken makes for a quick option.
  • 2 cups Broccoli Florets, chopped small Feel free to swap in spinach or peas.

For the Creamy Sauce

  • 2 cups Chicken Broth Use vegetable broth if going vegetarian.
  • 1 cup Milk Switch to almond or any plant-based milk for dairy-free needs.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances overall flavor.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Pepper Adds a hint of spice.

For the Cheesy Goodness

  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Creates that creamy, cheesy texture; mozzarella or Monterey Jack can be used for variety.
  • 0.25 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Feel free to add more for extra richness.

Instructions

Instructions

  • Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Stir in minced garlic and orzo, toasting for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden.
  • Add chopped cooked chicken and small broccoli florets into the skillet, stirring gently to mix everything together.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and milk, adding salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes until orzo is tender.
  • Stir in shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
  • Spoon the hearty dish into bowls, garnishing with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh pepper.

Notes

Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand, making this dish truly customizable.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowl | Calories: 600kcal | Carbohydrates: 68g | Protein: 35g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 100mg | Sodium: 800mg | Potassium: 800mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 500IU | Vitamin C: 60mg | Calcium: 300mg | Iron: 2mg