Our easy, cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo recipe combines seasoned chicken breasts, orzo pasta, fresh broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese for a hearty, flavorful meal. It’s a quick recipe, perfect for busy nights and skipping all those unhealthy boxed meals or expensive take-out. With simple steps and minimal cleanup, it’s a great choice for family dinners or meal prep for easy lunches. The customizable seasoning makes it adaptable to your family’s preferences, and the dish goes well with a variety of sides.
Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo
Sometimes simple really is the best. We LOVE this recipe because it is fast to make and the flavors are homey, comforting, and familiar. This dish is also great to make ahead for quick, reheatable lunches. Orzo pasta is particularly perfect for leftovers because it isn’t overly prone to getting mushy while in the fridge or during reheating. It also can be reheated in the microwave, which most schools and offices are equipped with.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- One-Pot Meal: Simplifies cooking and cleaning for busy weeknights.
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of cheddar, butter, and milk creates an indulgent texture.
- Nutritious: Includes protein-packed chicken and fiber-rich broccoli.
- Customizable: Adjust the seasoning and cheese to suit your taste.
- Quick to Make: Ready in under an hour with simple ingredients.
Broccoli Chicken Orzo Shopping List
Wondering if you have to hit the grocery store or if you have all the ingredients you need for this? Check out this list! For the full ingredients list, including the amounts you’ll need, make sure to scroll to the bottom and view the recipe card.
Ingredients
- Chicken
- OWYD Roasted Chicken Rub
(or substitute with Salt, Pepper, Sage, Thyme, Garlic Powder, and Onion Powder) - Butter
- Orzo Pasta
- Chicken Broth
- Whole Milk
- Dry Mustard
- Broccoli
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- Salt
How to make Broccoli Chicken Orzo
Looking to see what you’re getting into here? Below is a general overview of the recipe steps. When you’re cooking, make sure to use the recipe card at the bottom of the post for the full instructions.
- Cook the Chicken: Season chicken breasts generously with the OWYD Roasted Chicken Rub (or sub in your own homemade blend). Heat butter in a skillet and cook the chicken until browned and cooked through. Rest, then dice.
- Prepare the Orzo: Combine orzo, chicken broth, milk, butter, and dry mustard in a pot. Simmer, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Adjust the liquid if necessary.
- Add the Broccoli: Stir in the chopped broccoli halfway through the orzo’s cooking time to ensure it becomes tender without overcooking.
- Incorporate the Chicken: Add the cooked, diced chicken back into the pot once the orzo is tender.
- Finish with Cheese: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until fully melted. Season with additional salt if needed and serve warm.
FAQ
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
How Do I Reheat This Dish?
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, prepare the chicken and chop the broccoli in advance. The orzo is best cooked fresh, but leftovers reheat well.
What Substitutions Can I Make?
- Chicken: Swap for turkey or pork tenderloin.
- Cheese: Use Gouda, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses.
- Broccoli: Substitute with spinach, peas, or asparagus.
Serve This With…
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Side Salad: A fresh, tangy salad balances the richness.
- Roasted Vegetables: For an extra boost of veggies.
This Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo is a practical, comforting, and adaptable dish you’ll love having in your recipe rotation. Its creamy texture and balanced flavors make it a satisfying meal, while the one-pot cooking method saves you time and effort. Enjoy it as a standalone dinner or pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
PIN FOR LATER!
Chicken and Broccoli Orzo
This hearty, homemade Chicken and Broccoli Orzo is full of flavor and cheese! We love this for a quick weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons OWYD Roasted Chicken Rub
- 3 tablespoons butter
Pasta
- 1 1/2 cups dry orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cup whole milk
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
- 2 cups broccoli, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- salt, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat a skillet over medium heat on the stovetop.
- Season the chicken breasts on both sides with the Roasted Chicken Rub. See note below for a substitution for the chicken rub.
- Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in the pan. Cook the chicken breast until it is browned on both sides, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- While the chicken is cooking, start the orzo by placing the orzo, broth, milk, 3 tablespoons butter, and dry mustard into a medium pot over medium heat.
- Bring the pot up to a simmer, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. If necessary, add in additional milk 1/4 cup at a time to maintain the texture that you prefer.
- Once the chicken is done, remove from the pan and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into bite-sized chunks.
- Add the chicken to the pot with the orzo.
- Once the orzo is tender, remove from the heat and stir in the shredded cheese.
- Taste and add salt, if necessary. Serve hot.
Notes
If you don't have our rub yet, you can use a combination of salt, pepper, sage, thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder. Measure with your heart.
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Nutrition Information:
Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 564Total Fat: 26gSaturated Fat: 15gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 104mgSodium: 765mgCarbohydrates: 50gFiber: 4gSugar: 6gProtein: 31g