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Chicken and Broccoli Orzo

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo: A Quick, Family-Friendly Delight

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo is a delicious, one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons Cooking Oil Use olive oil or vegetable oil for sautéing chicken.
  • 1 pound Chicken Breast Boneless thighs can be substituted for juiciness.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Freshly ground for best flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Substitute with dairy-free butter if needed.
For the Aromatics
  • 1 medium Onion Yellow or white onion works best.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh minced garlic preferred.
For the Veggies
  • 2 cups Broccoli Florets Can be swapped with cauliflower or asparagus.
For the Pasta
  • 1 cup Orzo Rice-shaped pasta; can substitute with small pasta or rice.
For the Broth
  • 4 cups Chicken Stock Vegetable stock works for vegetarian option.
For the Creamy Finish
  • 1 cup Cheese (Parmesan & Cheddar) Use alternatives like mozzarella or gruyere if desired.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Fresh lemon juice is recommended.
For Garnishing
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Herbs Basil, parsley, or oregano work well.

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest.
  2. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add diced onion and broccoli florets, sautéing until softened, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Add 1 cup of orzo to the skillet, stirring well to coat it in the buttery vegetable mixture. Pour in 4 cups of chicken stock and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for about 10–11 minutes until orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
  4. Reduce heat to low and stir in 1 cup each of shredded Parmesan and cheddar cheese, mixing until melted and creamy. Return chicken to the skillet, allowing it to warm through.
  5. Remove the skillet from heat, drizzle with 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, and mix well. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This recipe is customizable and can be adjusted based on personal preferences. Perfect for a family dinner.

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