One-Pot Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo
A creamy, cheesy one-pot meal with tender chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and orzo pasta that cooks directly in a savory broth. It’s a nourishing, family-friendly dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.
Equipment
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 tsp salt, divided
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped (about 150 g)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 1/2 cups dried orzo pasta
- 1 1/2 cups small broccoli florets
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- chopped parsley or red pepper flakes (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Heat oil or butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season chicken with 1/2 tsp salt and pepper. Brown for 3–4 minutes, then remove and set aside.
- Add onion and cook 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and milk. Scrape up browned bits. Stir in orzo and remaining 1/2 tsp salt.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then simmer uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring often, until orzo is nearly tender and most liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in broccoli florets and browned chicken. Simmer another 3–5 minutes until broccoli is tender and chicken is cooked through.
- Remove from heat. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan until melted into a creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley or red pepper flakes if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
Shred your own cheese for the smoothest sauce, and stir the orzo frequently to avoid sticking. Swap broccoli with asparagus, spinach, or peas for variety. Leftovers keep for 3 days in the fridge but this dish does not freeze well.
Nutrition
Calories: 580kcalCarbohydrates: 48gProtein: 40gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 115mgSodium: 870mgPotassium: 720mgFiber: 3gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 900IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 420mgIron: 2.7mg
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