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 will 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 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 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 prep time, use pre-chopped broccoli or frozen broccoli florets.
• If you want to add more veggies, consider adding peas or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.
• For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions.
• This dish is perfect for 30-minute meals, so keep an eye on the clock!

How to Serve

Serving this dish is a breeze! I love to plate it up with a sprinkle of extra cheddar on top and a side of crusty bread for dipping. It’s also fantastic with a fresh garden salad to balance out the creaminess. If you have any leftovers, they make for a great lunch the next day!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up. If you want to freeze it, I recommend doing so before adding the cheese. You can freeze it for up to 2 months, then thaw and add the cheese when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking! This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is sure to become a staple in your home, especially for those busy weeknights when you need quick family dinners. 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!