How to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo in 30 Minutes

Are you ready to whip up a delicious, creamy dish that the whole family will love? I’m excited to share my recipe for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo, a delightful meal that comes together in just 30 minutes! This is one of my favorite easy pasta recipes that not only satisfies my cravings but also makes for a quick family dinner that everyone can enjoy. Let’s dive into this cheesy goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich and creamy flavor that kids and adults will adore.
• Packed with nutritious broccoli and protein-rich chicken.
• Versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies.
• Great for meal prep and leftovers!

Ingredients

To make this scrumptious 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 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 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 a Toddler Picky Eater, try blending the broccoli into smaller pieces or even pureeing it into the sauce for a smoother texture.
• For a little extra flavor, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like a bit of heat.
• This dish is also a great way to use up leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken from the grocery store.
• Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go!

How to Serve

This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is perfect on its own, but you can elevate your meal with some delicious sides:

• Serve with a fresh garden salad for a light and healthy addition.
• Pair it with garlic bread for a comforting, hearty meal.
• Top with extra cheese or fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

If you’re looking for weeknight dinner ideas that can be prepped in advance, this recipe is a winner! Here’s how to store it:

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.
• This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

And there you have it! A creamy, cheesy delight that’s perfect for busy weeknights and sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. 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 delightful dessert. Happy cooking!