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Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo
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Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a quick and satisfying dinner that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and delicate orzo pasta in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this wholesome and comforting meal perfectly balances protein, veggies, and carbs for a family-friendly dish that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces

Vegetables

  • 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed or blanched
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Pasta

  • 1 cup orzo pasta

Liquids

  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup milk or cream

Cheese

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fats & Oils

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

Seasonings & Herbs

  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: fresh thyme or parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken and Broccoli: Cut chicken breasts into bite-size pieces and season with salt and pepper. Steam or blanch broccoli florets until bright green and tender-crisp, then set aside.
  2. Cook the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent to build rich flavor.
  3. Toast the Orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the pan and stir for a minute, allowing it to slightly toast to enhance its nuttiness and texture.
  4. Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in chicken broth and milk or cream, bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir often and cook until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  5. Combine Everything with Cheese: Fold in cooked chicken, broccoli, and grated cheeses. Continue to cook on low heat until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce, coating the orzo evenly.
  6. Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste and adjust seasonings with salt, pepper, and optional fresh herbs. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness.

Notes

  • Use fresh broccoli and good quality cheese for best flavor.
  • Do not overcook orzo to avoid mushiness.
  • Let the dish rest off heat for a few minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  • For extra creaminess, stir in a spoonful of cream cheese or Greek yogurt before serving.
  • For a crunchy topping, sprinkle extra cheese on top and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy chicken broccoli orzo, creamy chicken pasta, easy weeknight dinner, family-friendly comfort food, one-pot meal

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/cheesy-chicken-broccoli-orzo/