Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo: Creamy One-Pot Main Dish (Print Version)
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a creamy, comforting one-pot main dish. Quick to prepare, this family-friendly meal features tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and savory orzo pasta.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ Hearty Foundation & Aromatics
01 -
1 tbsp olive oil
02 -
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
03 -
1/2 yellow onion, finely diced
04 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Creamy Orzo Embrace
05 -
1 1/2 cups uncooked orzo pasta
06 -
3 cups chicken broth
07 -
1/2 cup whole milk
08 -
2 oz cream cheese, softened
09 -
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
→ Vibrant Veggies & Seasonings
10 -
3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
11 -
1 tsp kosher salt
12 -
1/2 tsp black pepper
13 -
1/2 tsp dried thyme
14 -
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
→ Fresh Finish
15 -
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes, and cook until lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside on a plate.
02 -
To the same pot, add 1/2 yellow onion, finely diced, and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in 2 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for another minute until fragrant. This builds the essential flavor base for your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo: Creamy One-Pot Main Dish.
03 -
Stir in 1 1/2 cups uncooked orzo pasta, 3 cups chicken broth, and 1/2 cup whole milk. Season with 1 tsp kosher salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp dried thyme, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
04 -
Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is almost tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Ensure it doesn't stick to the bottom for a perfect Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo: Creamy One-Pot Main Dish.
05 -
Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Add 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen), 2 oz cream cheese, softened, and 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir everything well to combine and distribute the ingredients evenly.
06 -
Continue to cook, uncovered, for another 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the broccoli is tender-crisp and all the cheeses are melted and creamy. The sauce should be thick and luscious. This ensures your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo: Creamy One-Pot Main Dish is perfectly creamy.
07 -
Remove the pot from heat and let the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo: Creamy One-Pot Main Dish rest for a few minutes to allow the sauce to thicken further. Garnish generously with 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, before serving warm.
# Notes:
01 -
Feel free to swap chicken breast for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor. You can also use spinach or peas instead of broccoli.
02 -
For an extra creamy sauce, stir in a tablespoon of butter at the very end, just before serving.
03 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to loosen.
04 -
Serve this hearty Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo as a complete meal, or alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot or Dutch oven
02 -
Cutting board
03 -
Chef's knife
04 -
Measuring cups
05 -
Measuring spoons
06 -
Wooden spoon or spatula
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 655 kcal
Total Fat: 27 g
Total Carbohydrate: 55 g
Protein: 48 g