After a long day, finding a meal that feels both nourishing and effortless can be a game-changer. Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo strikes that perfect balance, combining tender chicken and vibrant broccoli in a creamy, cheesy sauce that wraps around each bite of delicate orzo pasta. It’s the kind of dinner that invites you to slow down and savor every spoonful.

One evening, I remember rushing home after a whirlwind day filled with unexpected errands and calls. The kitchen was quiet except for the soft bubbling from the stove where this dish was simmering. The aroma of garlic mingled with sharp cheddar and warm chicken broth filled the room. As I took that first bite, the creamy texture and the subtle kick of red pepper flakes brought a comforting warmth that seemed to melt the stress away. The bright green broccoli added a fresh snap to the dish, making it feel both indulgent and wholesome. It was a moment of calm, wrapped up in a bowl.

Ready in just about 40 minutes, perfect for hectic evenings.
A one-pot meal that simplifies cleanup without sacrificing flavor.
Combines protein, veggies, and pasta for a balanced dinner.
Rich, creamy sauce with a hint of spice for depth.
Comforting and satisfying for the whole family.

If you’re worried about leftovers, this dish reheats beautifully. Just add a splash of broth or water to keep it creamy and fresh the next day.

Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo

Print Recipe

A creamy and comforting one-pot meal featuring tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and tender orzo pasta, perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4

Ingredients

Scale

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup water
2 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 tablespoon unsalted butter

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Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken pieces with kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
Pour in the chicken broth and water, then bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the chopped broccoli florets to the skillet and continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the broccoli is bright green and cooked through.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
Add the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, unsalted butter, and crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet.
Stir gently until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and well combined.
Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with extra shredded cheddar cheese if desired.

FAQ

Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, frozen broccoli works well—just add it a little earlier to make sure it cooks through.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free? You can swap the cheeses and cream for dairy-free alternatives, but it will change the texture slightly.

Can I prepare this in advance? Absolutely! You can cook it ahead and gently reheat when ready, adding a bit of liquid to refresh the sauce.

What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days for easy meals later in the week.

Give Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo a try tonight and turn an ordinary evening into something a little cozier.