Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

When you’re short on time but craving comfort, nothing hits the spot quite like Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo. This one-pot pasta dish is a delicious combination of tender chicken, creamy cheddar cheese, and wholesome broccoli, all stirred into perfectly cooked orzo pasta. It’s fast, flavorful, and guaranteed to satisfy both kids and adults alike. This meal is a weeknight hero—it comes together in under 30 minutes, saves on cleanup, and delivers on both nutrition and comfort food appeal. The cheesy, creamy sauce coats every bite, while the broccoli adds just enough freshness to make you feel good about going back for seconds (or thirds!). If you’re a fan of simple, no-fuss dinners with serious flavor, Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo belongs in your rotation. It’s an instant favorite for anyone who loves creamy pasta dishes that feel indulgent without the effort. Cooking doesn’t have to mean a sink full of dishes. One-pot meals like Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo are the ultimate kitchen hack for busy home cooks. With everything—protein, vegetables, carbs, and sauce—cooked in a single pot, you save time on prep, cooking, and cleanup. These meals allow flavors to blend beautifully while minimizing mess. Plus, they’re perfect for meal prepping and batch cooking. Whether you’re making dinner after work or feeding a hungry family, one-pot pasta dishes are a reliable go-to that offer convenience, balance, and maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Variations and Substitutions – Want to make it your own? Try these ideas:
– Swap broccoli for spinach, kale, or peas.
– Use leftover turkey or cooked sausage instead of chicken.
– Add red pepper flakes for heat.
– Use Monterey Jack or Gouda instead of cheddar.
– Lighten it up with half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of cream.

Ingredients:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
½ medium onion (chopped)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or thawed frozen)
½ tsp Italian seasoning
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
2 cups cooked shredded chicken (e.g., rotisserie)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (preferably sharp)
Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:
Heat oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions for 3–4 minutes. Add broccoli; cook 2 more minutes. Stir in garlic, seasoning, and orzo; toast for 30 seconds. Pour in broth, cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to boil, reduce to simmer. Cook uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring often. Add chicken, stir to heat through. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper. Let sit 2–3 minutes to thicken.

Notes:
– Use freshly grated cheese for smoother texture.
– To lighten, substitute cream with half-and-half.
– Add red pepper flakes for heat.
– Great with garlic bread or a crisp green salad.

Please follow & like us: