How to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo in 30 Minutes

Are you ready to whip up a delicious, creamy, and cheesy dinner that your whole family will love? I know I am! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also comes together in just 30 minutes, making it one of my favorite 30-minute meals. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is a fantastic option for anyone looking for easy pasta recipes that the whole family can enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for quick family dinners.
• Rich and creamy, with a delightful cheesy flavor that kids and adults alike will adore.
• Packed with nutritious broccoli, making it a great choice for Toddler Friendly Meals.
• Versatile and customizable; you can easily add your favorite veggies or proteins.
• Leftovers are just as delicious, making it a great option for meal prep!

Ingredients

To make this scrumptious Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
• 2 cups broccoli (cut into bite-size florets)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cups cooked shredded/rotisserie chicken
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar
• Salt & pepper (to taste)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the cooking process! Follow these simple steps to create your own Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo:

1. Add the olive oil, butter, and chopped onion to a pot over medium-high heat. Sauté the onion for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
2. Next, toss in the broccoli and continue cooking for another 2 minutes, stirring often to ensure even cooking.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and orzo, cooking for about 30 seconds to release those wonderful flavors.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Once it just starts to boil, reduce the heat to medium or even medium-low. Let it cook uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring fairly often. You want it to gently bubble, not boil furiously!
5. After 10 minutes, stir in the cooked shredded chicken.
6. Take the pot off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar until it’s completely melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste. I like to be generous with the salt! If needed, cover the pot and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo turns out perfectly:

• Feel free to swap out the broccoli for other veggies like spinach or peas if your family prefers.
• If you have picky eaters, try blending the broccoli into smaller pieces to make it less noticeable.
• For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
• Using rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also adds a wonderful flavor to the dish.
• Don’t skip the Worcestershire sauce; it adds a depth of flavor that really elevates the dish!

How to Serve

This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate your dinner by serving it with:

• A fresh garden salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette.
• Garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.
• A sprinkle of extra cheddar on top for those cheese lovers in your family!

Make Ahead and Storage

If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, you can cook the orzo and veggies in advance and store them separately. When you’re ready to eat, simply combine everything in a pot and heat through. This makes it a fantastic option for weeknight dinner ideas!

For leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen it up if needed.

So, there you have it! A delightful, creamy, and cheesy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. I hope you enjoy making this creamy garlic pasta as much as I do. And if you’re in the mood for something sweet afterward, don’t forget to check out my Decadent Chocolate Cake or the Ultimate Chocolate Indulgence Cake for a perfect dessert pairing!