Looking for a quick and comforting weeknight dinner? This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo is creamy, cheesy, and packed with nutrients. Made with tender chicken, fresh broccoli florets, garlic, shallots, and cheddar cheese—all tossed with orzo pasta—it’s a one-pan meal your whole family will love!
Whether you’re meal prepping, cooking for kids, or just craving something cozy and wholesome, this dish is a total winner. Let’s dive into this easy, delicious recipe that’s both satisfying and simple to make.
📝 Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this creamy chicken and broccoli orzo:
Protein:
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1 chicken breast, diced (boneless & skinless)
Vegetables:
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2 cups small broccoli florets
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 shallot, finely chopped
Pantry & Dry Goods:
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1 cup orzo pasta (uncooked)
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2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
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Salt & black pepper to taste
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½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
Dairy:
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1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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½ cup whole milk or heavy cream
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1 tbsp butter
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1 tbsp olive oil
👩🍳 How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo (Step-by-Step)
This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes and only uses one pan—less mess, more flavor!
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast, season with salt and pepper, and cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through (about 5–7 minutes). Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter. Toss in the minced garlic and chopped shallot. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden.
Step 3: Add Orzo & Broth
Add the orzo pasta and toast it for 1 minute, stirring frequently. Then, pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and reduce heat to medium-low. Let it cook for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and most of the broth is absorbed.
Step 4: Stir in Broccoli
Add broccoli florets directly to the pan. Cover with a lid and let the steam soften the broccoli for 4–5 minutes.
Step 5: Add Back the Chicken & Cheese
Once the broccoli is tender, stir in the cooked chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk (or cream). Mix until everything is creamy and well combined. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until heated through.
Step 6: Finish & Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or chili flakes. Serve warm and enjoy!
🔁 Variations & Substitutions
Make this recipe your own with some easy tweaks:
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Vegetarian version: Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or tofu.
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Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free orzo or short pasta.
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Add-ins: Throw in spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra veggies.
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Different cheeses: Try mozzarella, gruyere, or parmesan for a twist.
🥣 What is Orzo?
Orzo is a type of pasta that looks like rice. It’s perfect for creamy dishes like risottos, soups, and one-pan meals. It absorbs flavor beautifully and cooks quickly—ideal for busy weeknights.
🍴 What to Serve With Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo
This dish is satisfying on its own, but here are some great pairings:
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Garlic bread or crusty toast
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A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette
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Roasted veggies like carrots or brussels sprouts
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Iced tea or a light white wine (if you’re feeling fancy)
⏱️ Storage & Meal Prep Tips
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Reheat: Warm in a pan with a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creaminess.
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Make Ahead: Dice the chicken and chop veggies in advance to save time.
📌 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ One-pan recipe = less cleanup
✅ Family-friendly and kid-approved
✅ Perfect for meal prep or lunchboxes
✅ Loaded with protein, veggies, and cheesy comfort