Ready in just 30 minutes, this comforting one-pot meal combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and hearty orzo pasta in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, it uses simple ingredients and delivers rich flavor with minimal cleanup.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: from start to table in 30 minutes
- Uses everyday pantry staples and fresh veggies
- All cooked in one pot for easy cleanup
- Balanced with protein, vegetables, and carbs
- Creamy, cheesy sauce loved by kids and adults alike
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Olive oil and butter for cooking and flavor
- Seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, smoked paprika
- Carrots and yellow onion for sweetness and aroma
- Fresh garlic cloves for robust flavor
- Orzo pasta, which cooks up creamy like risotto
- Chicken bouillon mixed with water (or chicken broth) for cooking the pasta
- Fresh broccoli florets for nutrition and color
- Heavy cream for richness
- Freshly grated cheddar and Parmesan cheeses for cheesy depth
Instructions
1. Season the Chicken:
Toss chicken pieces with olive oil and seasonings until evenly coated.
2. Brown the Chicken:
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken until golden and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté Vegetables:
In the same skillet, melt remaining butter. Add diced carrots and onion and cook for 7 minutes until softened and caramelized. Stir in garlic and cook 1 more minute.
4. Toast the Orzo:
Add uncooked orzo to the veggies and stir constantly for 1 minute until lightly toasted.
5. Cook Pasta and Broccoli:
Pour in chicken bouillon and water (or broth), scraping the pan’s bottom to release flavor bits. Stir in broccoli florets. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 11–12 minutes until orzo is tender but still slightly firm.
6. Make the Cheese Sauce:
Remove lid and stir in heavy cream, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
7. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked chicken to the pan and gently fold it into the cheesy orzo mixture. Heat through for 1–2 minutes, then serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- Meal Prep Friendly: Chop veggies and season chicken ahead to save time on busy nights.
- Swap It Up: Substitute chicken with Italian sausage, rotisserie chicken, or make it vegetarian by omitting meat and using vegetable broth.
- Add More Veggies: Try spinach, peas, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrition.
- Reheating: Gently reheat with a splash of milk or broth to keep the sauce creamy.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this creamy orzo dish with a fresh green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread makes a great side for soaking up any leftover sauce. For a kid-friendly touch, serve with fresh fruit like sliced apples or grapes.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes! Small shapes like ditalini or small shells work well but adjust cooking times and liquid amounts.
How can I make it healthier?
Use low-fat cheese, substitute heavy cream with milk or a plant-based alternative, and add more veggies.
Can it be frozen?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently with added liquid.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
This creamy, cheesy one-pot chicken and broccoli orzo is an easy, satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy families or anyone craving comfort food without the fuss. Give it a try tonight!