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Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Skillet

A creamy one pan chicken broccoli orzo recipe made with tender chicken, soft orzo pasta, fresh broccoli, and melted cheddar cheese. This easy skillet dinner is comforting, quick, and perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken breast cubed
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Cook chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika until golden and fully cooked.
  2. Add butter and garlic. Cook for one minute until fragrant.
  3. Add orzo, chicken broth, and milk. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
  4. Simmer and stir until orzo becomes soft and creamy.
  5. Add broccoli and cook covered until tender.
  6. Turn off heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

Notes

  • Cut the chicken into small, even pieces so it cooks quickly and evenly.
  • Stir the orzo often while cooking to keep it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
  • If the orzo absorbs liquid too fast, add an extra splash of chicken broth or milk to keep the texture creamy.
  • Freshly shredded cheese melts smoother than pre-shredded cheese and gives the sauce a creamier finish.
  • Add the broccoli near the end of cooking so it stays bright green and tender instead of becoming mushy.
  • Frozen broccoli can be used. There is no need to thaw first, but it may need an extra minute or two to cook.
  • For extra flavor, add a small sprinkle of parmesan cheese before serving.
  • Leftovers will thicken as they sit. Add a little milk or broth when reheating to bring back the creamy texture.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • This recipe works well for meal prep because the flavors stay rich and comforting after reheating.