How to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo in 30 Minutes

Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re anything like me, you know that weeknights can get a little hectic, especially when it comes to preparing dinner for the family. That’s why I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo—a delightful dish that combines creamy goodness with the wholesome flavors of chicken and broccoli. And the best part? It’s one of those easy pasta recipes that you can whip up in just 30 minutes! So, let’s dive in and make your next family dinner a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich and creamy, making it a hit with both kids and adults.
• 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 delicious 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 creamy garlic pasta masterpiece:

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 about 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:

• 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 sneaky way to add nutrition!
• For a little extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
• This dish is also a great way to use up leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken from the grocery store.

How to Serve

When it comes to serving this delightful dish, I love to pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up all that creamy goodness. You can also sprinkle some extra cheddar on top for a cheesy finish! This is one of those weeknight dinner ideas that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Make Ahead and Storage

If you’re looking to meal prep, this 30-minute meal is perfect for that! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up if it thickens too much. It also freezes well, so you can enjoy it later on those busy nights when cooking feels like a chore.

So there you have it! A delicious, creamy, and cheesy dish that’s perfect for quick family dinners. I hope you enjoy making this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo 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 delightful treat!