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 perfect for 30-minute meals.
• Loaded with cheesy goodness that kids and adults alike will adore.
• Incorporates healthy broccoli, making it a great choice for Healthy Toddler Meals.
• Versatile enough to use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken.
• Perfect for busy weeknights when you need quick family dinners.

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 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 add other vegetables like peas or spinach for extra nutrition.
• If you have a Picky Toddler, try blending the broccoli into smaller pieces to make it less noticeable.
• For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
• Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
• This recipe is easily doubled if you’re feeding a larger crowd or want leftovers for lunch!

How to Serve

This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is best served warm, straight from the pot. I love to garnish it with a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese or some fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color. 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 comforting!

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! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge 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.

So there you have it! A delicious, creamy, and cheesy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. I hope you enjoy making this creamy garlic pasta 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 dessert. Happy cooking!