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
- 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.
- During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Once cooked, drain any excess liquid and set aside.
- In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and paprika, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- 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.
- 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