How to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo in 30 Minutes

Are you ready to whip up a delicious dinner that the whole family will love? I know how busy life can get, especially when you’re juggling work, family, and everything in between. That’s why I’m excited to share my recipe for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo! This dish is not only a breeze to make in just 30 minutes, but it’s also packed with flavor and nutrition. Perfect for those quick family dinners, this creamy garlic pasta will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Deliciously cheesy and creamy, satisfying even the pickiest eaters.
• Packed with nutritious broccoli and protein-rich chicken.
• Perfect for meal prep or leftovers, making it a great option for lunch the next day.
• Versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins.

Ingredients

To make this delightful 30-minute meal, you’ll 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 steps to create this mouthwatering dish:

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. 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:

• For a little extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
• If you have any leftover veggies in the fridge, feel free to toss them in! This recipe is very forgiving and can accommodate various ingredients.
• Using rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat.
• Don’t skip the resting time after cooking; it helps the sauce thicken and makes for a creamier dish.

How to Serve

This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to elevate your dinner, consider serving it with:

• A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.
• A glass of white wine for the adults, or sparkling water for the kids!

Make Ahead and Storage

If you’re looking for easy toddler meals or want to prep ahead, this dish is perfect for that! Here’s how to store it:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.
• This dish can also be frozen! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months.

So there you have it! A delightful, creamy, and cheesy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights and sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. If you’re looking for more easy pasta recipes, don’t forget to check out my Decadent Chocolate Cake or the Ultimate Chocolate Indulgence Cake for a sweet finish to your meal. Happy cooking!