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. This dish is not only creamy and cheesy but also comes together in just 30 minutes! Perfect for those busy weeknights when you need quick family dinners that are both satisfying and nutritious. Plus, it’s one of those easy pasta recipes that even picky eaters will enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare in just 30 minutes.
• Rich, creamy flavor that satisfies your comfort food cravings.
• Packed with protein and veggies, making it a balanced meal.
• Perfect for leftovers or meal prep for the week.
• Kid-friendly and great for Toddler Friendly Meals.

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. Now, add 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 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:

• For a quicker option, use rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or spinach for extra nutrition.
• If you want a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
• This dish can easily be doubled for larger families or meal prep!

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.

Make Ahead and Storage

If you’re looking to save time during the week, 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 up on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.
• This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

So there you have it! A delicious, creamy garlic pasta dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. I hope you enjoy making this 30-minute meal 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!