Go Back
–+ servings
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

Comforting Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo in One Pot

This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a creamy, one-pot dish loaded with chicken, broccoli, and cheese, ready in 30 minutes.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Quick-cooking, can substitute with any small pasta.
For the Protein
  • 1 pound Chicken Diced breasts or thighs, can substitute with tofu.
For the Veggies
  • 2 cups Broccoli Chopped into small florets, fresh or thawed from frozen.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Freshly grated melts best.
  • 1/2 cup Cream Can substitute with half-and-half.
For Flavor
  • to taste Seasonings Salt and pepper, optional red pepper flakes.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Optional, adds depth when sautéed with chicken.

Equipment

  • large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by gathering your ingredients. Dice the chicken and chop the broccoli. Measure out the orzo and grate the cheddar cheese.
  2. In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for about 5–7 minutes until golden brown.
  3. Add the orzo and chopped broccoli to the pot. Pour in the cream, stirring well. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
  4. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and broccoli is vibrant.
  5. Remove from heat and gently stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
  6. Serve warm in bowls, garnished with extra cheese or herbs if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Ensure consistent chicken cuts for even cooking; monitor the simmer and use low-sodium broth for flavor without excess salt.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!