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 your little ones. Trust me, it’s one of those easy pasta recipes that you’ll want to keep in your rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for 30-minute meals.
• Rich and creamy flavor that satisfies even the pickiest eaters.
• Packed with nutritious broccoli and tender chicken.
• Perfect for quick family dinners or meal prep.
• 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

Let’s dive into the cooking process! 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 shredded chicken.
6. Finally, take the pot off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar until it’s completely melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce needs to thicken, cover the pot and let it sit for a few minutes.

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 dash of lemon juice before serving.
• This dish is also great for meal prep! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

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 a fantastic option for weeknight dinner ideas that will leave everyone satisfied.

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, just combine everything in a pot and heat it up! For leftovers, store any uneaten Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen it up if needed.

And there you have it! A delicious, creamy garlic pasta dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights and sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. If you’re looking for more delightful dessert ideas to pair with your meal, check out my Decadent Chocolate Cake or the Ultimate Chocolate Indulgence Cake. Happy cooking!