Broccoli Cheddar Orzo with Chicken

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Introduction:

This Creamy Orzo with Tender Chicken and Broccoli in a Cheesy Sauce is the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness with wholesome ingredients. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a satisfying and easy meal for the whole family!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions (8-10 minutes) until al dente.
  2. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Once cooked, drain any excess liquid and set aside.
  3. In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and paprika, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
  5. Return the cooked orzo and broccoli to the pot, then add the shredded chicken and cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and everything is well combined.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

Helpful Tips

  1. Cook the Orzo to Al Dente – Since orzo continues to absorb liquid even after cooking, keeping it al dente ensures it doesn’t turn mushy when mixed with the cheese and chicken. Drain excess liquid immediately to prevent overcooking.

  2. Use Freshly Shredded Cheese – Pre-packaged shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly. For a creamier sauce, shred your own cheddar from a block.

  3. Adjust the Consistency – If the dish seems too thick after adding the cheese, stir in a splash of warm chicken broth or a little milk to loosen it up. This keeps the orzo creamy without becoming overly dense.

Serving Suggestions

  1. Pair with a Crisp Side Salad – A light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the dish. A simple arugula or spinach salad with lemon dressing works well.

  2. Serve with Garlic Bread – A slice of warm, buttery garlic bread makes the perfect accompaniment, allowing you to scoop up the creamy orzo sauce for extra flavor.

  3. Top with Crunchy Additions – For added texture, sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs or crispy fried onions on top before serving. It gives the dish a pleasant crunch that contrasts the creamy sauce.

Substitutions and Variations

  1. Swap Chicken for a Different Protein – Try using cooked turkey, shrimp, or even crispy tofu for a different take on this dish. It’s a great way to use up leftovers while keeping the meal flavorful.

  2. Make It Extra Creamy – Stir in a splash of heavy cream, a dollop of sour cream, or a bit of cream cheese for an even richer texture. This enhances the cheesy, velvety consistency.

  3. Use a Different Cheese Blend – While sharp cheddar provides a bold, tangy flavor, you can experiment with a mix of gouda, Monterey Jack, or gruyère for a unique, gourmet twist. Each cheese brings a different depth of flavor to the dish.

Conservation and Storage

  1. Refrigerate Properly – Store leftover Broccoli Cheddar Orzo with Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since the orzo will continue to absorb moisture, you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or milk when reheating to restore its creamy texture.

  2. Freeze for Longer Storage – If you want to store it for longer, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop with a bit of liquid to prevent drying out.

  3. Reheat Gently – Orzo can become mushy if overheated. For best results, reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently and adding small amounts of chicken broth or milk as needed to maintain a creamy consistency. If using a microwave, heat in short 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Overcooking the Orzo – Orzo is a small pasta that can easily turn mushy if overcooked. Be sure to cook it just until al dente and drain any excess liquid immediately to prevent it from becoming too soft.

  2. Adding Cheese Too Quickly – If the heat is too high when adding cheese, it can become clumpy or grainy rather than smooth and creamy. Always lower the heat and stir the cheese in gradually, allowing it to melt evenly.

  3. Skipping Seasoning Adjustments – Since cheddar cheese and chicken broth already contain salt, it’s essential to taste the dish before adding extra salt. Too much seasoning can overpower the flavors, so adjust gradually.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
    Yes! You can prepare the dish ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, orzo tends to absorb liquid over time, so when reheating, add a little chicken broth or milk to restore the creamy consistency.

  2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
    Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for added texture and flavor.

  3. What can I use instead of orzo?
    If you don’t have orzo on hand, you can substitute it with other small pasta types like acini di pepe, ditalini, or couscous. If you prefer a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta or rice.

  4. How can I make this dish healthier?
    To lighten up the recipe, use reduced-fat cheese, swap heavy cream (if using) for Greek yogurt, and increase the vegetable-to-pasta ratio by adding extra broccoli, spinach, or peas for more fiber and nutrients.

Conclusion

Broccoli Cheddar Orzo with Chicken is the ultimate comfort food—a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness with tender chicken and nutritious broccoli. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or preparing ahead for meal prep, this dish is easy, satisfying, and incredibly versatile.

With helpful storage tips, common mistakes to avoid, and variations to suit different preferences, you can customize this dish to your liking while ensuring the best results. Plus, with a few serving suggestions, you can elevate it into a complete meal that everyone will love.

So, the next time you’re craving something warm, cheesy, and satisfying, this recipe is sure to hit the spot! What’s your favorite way to enjoy cheesy pasta dishes? 😊

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Broccoli Cheddar Orzo with Chicken

  • Author: Avery
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
Print Recipe

Description

This Creamy Orzo with Tender Chicken and Broccoli in a Cheesy Sauce is the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness with wholesome ingredients. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a satisfying and easy meal for the whole family!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions (8-10 minutes) until al dente.
  2. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Once cooked, drain any excess liquid and set aside.
  3. In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and paprika, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
  5. Return the cooked orzo and broccoli to the pot, then add the shredded chicken and cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and everything is well combined.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

  • Swap cheddar for gouda or Monterey Jack for a different cheesy twist.
  • Use rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal.
  • For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese.
  • Add red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: creamy orzo, chicken and broccoli, cheesy pasta, one-pot dinner, easy comfort food

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