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! 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 quick family dinners and is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich and creamy, with a delightful cheesy flavor that everyone will enjoy.
• Packed with nutritious broccoli, making it a great choice for Toddler Friendly Meals.
• Versatile and can be customized with your favorite veggies or proteins.
• Perfect for leftovers, making it a great option for meal prep!

Ingredients

To make this delightful creamy garlic pasta, 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 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 about 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 tend 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, consider 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 your family enjoys a bit of heat.
• This dish can easily be made vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead.

How to Serve

This easy pasta recipe is best served warm, straight from the pot! I love to garnish it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or additional cheese for an extra touch. Pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. It’s also a fantastic option for Toddler Dinner Recipes, as it’s creamy and flavorful, making it appealing to little ones!

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 it up! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen it up if needed.

For more delicious dessert ideas to complement your meal, check out my Decadent Chocolate Cake or the Ultimate Chocolate Indulgence Cake for a sweet finish!

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and let’s make this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo tonight! It’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite, and I can’t wait for you to try it!