How to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo in 30 Minutes

Are you ready to whip up a delicious meal that the whole family will love? I know I am! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo, a creamy and cheesy dish that comes together in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is not only a hit with adults but also makes for a fantastic option for those Toddler Friendly Meals. Let’s dive into this easy pasta recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for 30-minute meals.
• Rich and creamy flavor that satisfies even the pickiest eaters.
• Packed with nutritious broccoli and protein-rich chicken.
• Perfect for quick family dinners that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins.

Ingredients

To make this delightful dish, 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 get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your 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 shredded chicken.
6. Remove the pot from 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!
7. 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 leftovers, add a splash of chicken broth when reheating to keep it creamy.
• For a little extra flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick!
• This dish is also great for meal prep; just store it in individual containers for easy lunches throughout the week.

How to Serve

This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate your dining experience 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 or Parmesan cheese on top for added richness.

It’s also a fantastic option for picky toddler meals, as the creamy texture and cheesy flavor are usually a hit with little ones!

Make Ahead and Storage

If you want to prepare this dish in advance, you can cook the orzo and veggies ahead of time and store them separately. When you’re ready to eat, just combine everything in a pot and heat it up! For storage:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• When reheating, add a little extra cream or broth to restore the creamy texture.

Now that you have this delightful recipe in your arsenal, you can enjoy a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. 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 delicious dessert! Happy cooking!