Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
A vibrant plate showcasing creamy cheesy chicken and tender broccoli florets mixed with golden orzo pasta, garnished with melted cheese and fresh herbs, arranged on a white ceramic dish against a rustic wooden background.

Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Orzo: 30-Minute Weeknight Wonder!

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Orzo is a quick and delicious 30-minute weeknight dinner featuring tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and melted cheese in a flavorful orzo pasta. Perfect for busy families seeking a satisfying and easy-to-make meal.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup milk or heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: Red pepper flakes, for a spicy kick

Instructions

  1. Gather all your ingredients and chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Rinse the broccoli and set aside.
  2. Heat a premium nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then cook the diced chicken until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed and stir in the orzo. Toast for about 2 minutes until lightly golden, then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and milk (or heavy cream), stirring constantly. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid has absorbed.
  5. Stir in the broccoli florets, cooked chicken, and shredded cheese. Cover and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the cheese melts and the broccoli softens.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated cheese for better meltability.
  • If you prefer a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream at the end.
  • For extra flavor, sprinkle with red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like parsley.
  • Author: Serena Miller
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Comfort Food

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 520 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 750 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 56 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 36 g
  • Cholesterol: 105 mg