Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

When I think of cozy family dinners, the first dish that comes to mind is my beloved Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo. I can still remember the first time I made it — my kids were little, and we were all gathered around the kitchen table, laughter filling the air, as I served up a big pot of this creamy comfort food. There’s something magical about the combination of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and that irresistible cheesy goodness that just warms your heart on a chilly evening.

This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s simple, quick, and brings everyone together, making it a staple in our home. Plus, it’s so versatile! Whether it’s a family gathering or a random Tuesday, Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is always a hit and has become one of my go-to recipes for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love "Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo"

• Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
• Minimal ingredients: Simple pantry staples make this dish a breeze to prepare.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy, cheesy flavor.
• Versatile: Great for using up leftover chicken or adding in extra veggies.
• Freezer friendly: Make a big batch and store leftovers for a future meal.
• Comfort food: The creamy texture and rich flavors will warm your heart.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• ½ medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups broccoli florets, fresh or thawed frozen
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (like rotisserie chicken for convenience)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, preferably sharp
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Heat the Base

1. In a large pan, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until melted and bubbly.
2. Swirl the pan a bit to mix the oil and butter together. It’s like a little dance for your ingredients!

Sauté the Vegetables

1. Add the chopped onion to the pan. Sauté for about 3 minutes until it’s softened and fragrant.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. You want that garlic to be fragrant but not browned; we want it to be sweet, not bitter!
3. Now toss in the broccoli florets and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli brightens up and starts to soften.

Cook the Orzo

1. Stir in the orzo pasta and pour in the chicken broth.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil. You’ll hear it bubbling — that’s the sound of deliciousness coming together!
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Don’t worry if it looks a bit runny at first — it’ll come together!

Mix in Cream and Chicken

1. Remove the lid and give the orzo a good stir. Then, pour in the heavy cream and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well!
2. Add the shredded chicken to the pan, stirring to combine everything. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to get everything warmed through.

Add Cheese

1. Now comes the best part: sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese.
2. Stir until the cheese melts completely and you have a creamy, dreamy mixture. It should be ooey-gooey and absolutely irresistible!
3. Lastly, season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it one last stir and prepare for the delightful chaos of serving!

Variations

• Swap out broccoli for seasonal veggies like spinach or asparagus for a fresh twist.
• Try adding sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a burst of flavor.
• Make it lighter by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• For a dairy-free version, use cashew cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives.
• Mix in some crushed red pepper for a spicy kick if you’re feeling adventurous!

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Serve your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo warm, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra cheese for a touch of flair. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some warm, crusty bread to soak up that creamy goodness. A little squeeze of lemon can brighten the flavors too!

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen it up. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months — just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!

Helpful Notes

• Feel free to use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
• If you’re not a fan of cheddar, try using mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor.
• Add in some peas or carrots for extra veggies and color.
• For a gluten-free version, ensure your orzo is certified gluten-free.
• For a creamier dish, increase the amount of heavy cream or cheese to your liking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo?

Yes, you can absolutely freeze Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if it’s too thick.

How can I substitute the chicken?

If you want to substitute the chicken, there are several tasty options! Cooked turkey, rotisserie chicken, or even shredded beef can work beautifully. For a vegetarian option, try adding chickpeas or white beans for protein — they’ll soak up all the creamy goodness too!

What can I use instead of orzo?

If you don’t have orzo on hand, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini, couscous, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different grains may require varying amounts of liquid and time to cook.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! To make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo dairy-free, simply replace the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative such as coconut milk or cashew cream. For the cheese, look for plant-based cheese options that melt well — they’ll give you that creamy texture without the dairy!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo as I am to share it with you! It’s one of those recipes that can turn any ordinary evening into something special, filled with warmth and laughter. Don’t be afraid to make it your own, whether you add in your favorite veggies or adjust the cheese to your liking. Cooking should be fun and a little messy — just like life! So roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and enjoy this creamy comfort food that’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your home, just as it is in mine.

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