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 those busy weeknights, this recipe is not only a hit with adults but also makes for a fantastic option for 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, creamy flavors that satisfy 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’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. 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 want to add a little kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes when you add the garlic.
• For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• This dish is also great for meal prep! Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

How to Serve

This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate your dinner by serving it with:

• A fresh garden salad 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 flavor.

And if you’re looking for dessert ideas, why not try my Decadent Chocolate Cake or the Ultimate Chocolate Indulgence Cake? They’re perfect for satisfying that sweet tooth!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is perfect for meal prep! 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 up on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.
• You can also freeze this dish! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months.

So there you have it! A delicious, creamy, and cheesy dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinner ideas. I hope you enjoy making this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo as much as I do. It’s a fantastic way to bring the family together over a warm, comforting meal. Happy cooking!