Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo – Creamy, Comforting & Easy One-Pan Dinner

Adam

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo – Creamy, Comforting & Easy One-Pan Dinner

If you’re craving a cozy and satisfying meal that delivers creamy comfort, rich flavors, and simple preparation, this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is the perfect recipe. It’s a complete one-pan dish made with tender chicken, buttery orzo pasta, soft broccoli florets, and a velvety cheese sauce that melts beautifully into every bite. This dish balances hearty flavors with wholesome ingredients, making it ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or family dinners. The orzo cooks directly in the broth, absorbing tons of flavor while building a naturally thick, creamy base. Add steamed broccoli and melty cheeses, and you get a dish that tastes indulgent but remains simple and nourishing. If you love pasta, chicken, and cheesy comfort foods, this one-pan dinner will instantly earn a spot in your recipe rotation.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

Chicken

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts diced

Vegetables

2 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen
3 cloves garlic minced

Pasta

1 cup orzo pasta

Seasonings

1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp Italian seasoning

Cooking Fats

2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter

Liquids

2 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk or half-and-half

Cheese

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan

Equipment

Large skillet or sauté pan
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Cheese grater
Bowl (optional, for prepping ingredients)

Method

Step 1 — Prepare the Chicken

Season diced chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chicken and cook until lightly golden and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes.
Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2 — Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add butter.
Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly until fragrant.

Step 3 — Toast the Orzo

Add the orzo pasta into the garlic butter.
Stir and toast for 1–2 minutes to deepen flavor.

Step 4 — Cook the Orzo

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Reduce heat to medium-low.
Cover and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
If liquid evaporates too quickly, add a splash more broth.

Step 5 — Add Broccoli

Stir in the broccoli florets during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Allow them to soften while the orzo becomes tender.

Step 6 — Add the Chicken Back

Stir the cooked chicken back into the skillet.
Mix well so everything heats through evenly.

Step 7 — Make It Creamy

Pour in the milk or half-and-half, stirring to create a smooth base.
Let it gently simmer for 2–3 minutes.

Step 8 — Add the Cheeses

Turn heat to low:
Add cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted.
Add Parmesan and continue stirring until creamy and thick.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 9 — Serve

Scoop into bowls and serve warm—super creamy, cheesy, and perfectly comforting.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Skillet: Add a splash of milk and heat on low.

Microwave: Heat 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway.

Do not freeze (the cheese sauce may separate).

🥄 Variations
⭐ Extra Cheesy Version

Add more cheddar, Parmesan, or even mozzarella for stretchiness.

⭐ Veggie Boost

Stir in:

Spinach

Peas

Mushrooms

Roasted red peppers

⭐ Spicy Kick

Add red pepper flakes or cayenne.

⭐ Protein Swap

Use cooked turkey, shrimp, or rotisserie chicken.

⭐ Creamier Base

Use half-and-half or add a spoon of cream cheese.

❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, no need to thaw—add directly during cooking.

2. Can I replace chicken with another protein?

Absolutely—shrimp, turkey, or tofu work too.

3. Does the orzo cook in the broth?

Yes, this makes the dish creamy and flavorful.

4. Can I make it dairy-free?

Use plant milk and vegan cheese alternatives.

5. What if my sauce gets too thick?

Add more broth or milk to loosen it.

6. Can I use rice instead of orzo?

It works but will take longer and need more broth.

7. Is this good for meal prep?

Yes—stores very well and reheats easily.

8. Can I use cheddar only?

Yes, but Parmesan adds flavor depth.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes—use a large pan and double all ingredients.

10. Can I bake it after cooking?

Yes—top with cheese and broil for 3 minutes.

🏁 Conclusion

This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is everything you want in a comforting one-pan meal: creamy, hearty, cheesy, and full of flavor. It’s simple enough for weeknights but delicious enough for guests. With tender chicken, soft broccoli, and perfectly cooked orzo wrapped in a velvety cheese sauce, this dish brings comfort and satisfaction in every bite.