Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo
Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon Oil
- 1 lb Chicken Breast)
(cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
- 2 Tablespoons Butter
- 1/2 Onion)
(finely diced
- 4 Garlic Cloves)
(minced
- 1 1/2 cups Broccoli)
(cut into small pieces
- 1 cup Orzo Pasta
- 3 cups Chicken Broth
- 1 1/2 cups Cheese)
(1/2 cup of parmesan, 1 cup of cheddar
- 1 Tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice
- Fresh Herbs)
(basil, oregano, or parsley
Directions
- 1
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces, for about 3 minutes per side. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Once the chicken is no longer pink, remove it from the skillet and place the chicken plus the juices on a plate. Cover.
- 2
Add the butter, onion, and broccoli to the skillet and cook until softened about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute longer.
- 3
Add the orzo pasta and toss to coat. Stir in the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook until the orzo is tender, about 10-11 minutes. The orzo should soak up the chicken broth.
- 4
Stir in 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese and 1 cup of cheddar cheese and stir to melt. Add in cooked chicken and stir to coat.
- 5
Remove from heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice into the skillet and stir. Taste for seasonings and add more salt and pepper as needed.
- 6
Top with fresh herbs, if desired, and freshly grated parmesan or Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo
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Ratings & Reviews
Based on 43 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Looking for a delicious, comforting meal that comes together in just 30 minutes? This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo skillet is your answer, bringing creamy, satisfying flavors to your table without the fuss, perfect for a busy weeknight. This easy 30-minute meal is both creamy and delicious.
What makes this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo a weeknight hero is its clever use of a single skillet to create a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The tender chicken and vibrant broccoli are perfectly complemented by delicate orzo pasta, all brought together in a rich, velvety cheese sauce. It's a testament to achieving maximum flavor with minimal effort, ensuring a truly comforting and delicious experience.
Prepare for a truly satisfying dish where tender, juicy, bite-sized chicken pieces mingle effortlessly with perfectly cooked orzo and bright, crisp-tender broccoli florets. Each forkful is coated in a luscious, savory sauce, enriched by the comforting combination of sharp cheddar and nutty Parmesan, with a subtle brightness from fresh lemon. This is more than just a meal; it's a bowl of pure comfort.
You'll appreciate how the rich, creamy texture gives way to tender chicken and a slight bite from the orzo, while the broccoli adds a welcome burst of freshness. It’s a hearty yet balanced meal that feels both indulgent and wonderfully homemade, easily becoming a family favorite.
Feel free to get creative with your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo. You could easily swap the chicken for shrimp, or even white beans for a delightful vegetarian twist. Experiment with different types of cheese; a Gruyere would add a lovely nuttiness, or Monterey Jack for extra meltiness. Don't have fresh herbs? A sprinkle of dried Italian seasoning works wonderfully in a pinch.
Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo skillet shines brilliantly on its own. For an extra touch of elegance and fresh flavor, garnish generously with a scattering of fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving.