Description
This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo is a creamy, comforting one-pan meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Tender chicken breast pieces are seasoned and sautéed, then cooked with orzo pasta and chicken broth until perfectly al dente. Fresh broccoli florets add a healthy crunch and vibrant color, while butter and sharp cheddar cheese melt through the dish to create a rich, flavorful finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Protein and Seasonings
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- 1 chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
Aromatics
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 shallot (minced)
Orzo and Broth
- 1 cup orzo
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups small broccoli florets (approximately 1 small broccoli head)
Finishing Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 oz shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Heat one tablespoon of avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and brown each side for 2 to 3 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Sauté Aromatics and Toast Orzo: Add the minced garlic and shallot to the skillet with the chicken and cook for one minute, stirring to release their flavors. Then add the orzo directly into the skillet and toast it for about one minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Cook Orzo in Broth: Pour in 2 1/2 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for approximately 7 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan and to ensure even cooking.
- Add Broccoli and Finish Cooking: Stir in the small broccoli florets and continue cooking until the orzo is al dente and broccoli is tender-crisp, about 3 more minutes.
- Add Butter and Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons of butter and 3 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and combined, creating a creamy, cheesy sauce coating the orzo and broccoli.
Notes
- Use fresh chicken breast for best texture; cut into uniform bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Italian seasoning can be substituted with a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme if preferred.
- To make this dish vegetarian, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead.
- For an extra creamy texture, add a splash of heavy cream or milk along with the cheese and butter.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
