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, cheesy delight that comes together in just 30 minutes. Perfect for those busy weeknights, this dish 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 quick family dinners.
• 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 enough to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins.
• Perfect for meal prep or leftovers, ensuring you have delicious meals ready to go!

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

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 lovely 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!
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 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 hot sauce for the adults.
• Using rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
• Don’t skip the resting time after cooking; it helps the sauce thicken beautifully!

How to Serve

This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is best served warm, straight from the pot! Here are some serving suggestions:

• Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
• Pair it with a simple side salad for a complete meal.
• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• For a fun twist, try serving it in a baked potato or as a filling for stuffed peppers!

Make Ahead and Storage

This dish 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 on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.
• You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

Now that you have this delightful recipe in your arsenal, you can enjoy a creamy garlic pasta dish that’s not only quick to make but also a hit with the whole family. Whether you’re looking for weeknight dinner ideas or just a comforting meal, this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is sure to please. 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 perfect finish!