How to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo in 30 Minutes

Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re anything like me, you know that weeknights can get a little hectic. Between work, family, and everything in between, finding time to whip up a delicious meal can feel like a challenge. But fear not! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo, a delightful dish that’s not only creamy and cheesy but also comes together in just 30 minutes! Perfect for those quick family dinners, this recipe is one of my go-to easy pasta recipes that everyone in the family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich and creamy flavor that satisfies even the pickiest eaters.
• Packed with nutritious broccoli and protein-rich chicken.
• Perfect for leftovers, making it a great option for meal prep.
• Can be customized with your favorite veggies or cheeses!

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

Now, let’s dive into the cooking process! Follow these simple steps to create your own Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo:

1. Add the oil, butter, and onion to a pot over medium-high heat. Sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
2. Add in the broccoli and continue cooking for another 2 minutes, stirring often to ensure even cooking.
3. Stir in the garlic, Italian seasoning, and orzo, and cook for about 30 seconds to release those lovely flavors.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Once it just starts to boil, reduce the heat to medium or even medium-low. Continue cooking for 10 minutes, uncovered, stirring fairly often. You want it to gently bubble, not furiously boil, to avoid reducing the liquid too much before the pasta is cooked.
5. Stir in the chicken until well combined.
6. Take the pot off the heat, stir in the cheddar until it’s completely melted, and season with salt & pepper (I tend to be generous with the salt!). If needed, cover the pot and let it sit for a few minutes to let the sauce 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 little extra flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
• If you have a Toddler Picky Eater, consider blending the broccoli into smaller pieces or even pureeing it into the sauce for a smoother texture.
• Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.
• Experiment with different cheeses! Gouda or mozzarella can add a unique twist.

How to Serve

This dish is best served warm, straight from the pot! I love to garnish it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of extra cheese on top. 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 packed with flavors that little ones adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

If you’re looking to save time, you can prepare this dish ahead of time! Just follow the recipe up to the point of adding the chicken and cheese, then store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up. This dish also freezes well, making it a great option for easy toddler meals or quick weeknight dinners. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container!

So there you have it! My Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do. And if you’re in the mood for something sweet afterward, don’t forget to check out my Ultimate Chocolate Indulgence Cake or my Decadent Chocolate Cake for a delightful treat!

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

A creamy, cheesy pasta dish packed with tender chicken, broccoli, and flavorful seasonings, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 650

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

oil and butter

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter

vegetables

• 1/2 medium onion (chopped)

broccoli

• 2 cups broccoli (cut into bite-size florets)

garlic and seasonings

• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon italian seasoning

pasta

• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta

liquids

• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon worcestershire sauce

protein

• 2 cups cooked shredded/rotisserie chicken

cheese

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar
• to taste N/A salt & pepper

Method

 

1. Add oil, butter, and onion; sauté for 3-4 minutes.
2. Add broccoli; cook for 2 minutes, stirring often.
3. Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, and orzo; cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add broth, cream, and Worcestershire; boil then simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in chicken, then melt in cheddar; season with salt & pepper. Cover and let sit for a few minutes.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use freshly grated cheddar and rotisserie chicken.