As the leaves begin to turn and crisp air rolls in, there’s nothing more comforting than a creamy one-pot meal bubbling on the stove. This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo has become a reader favorite for a reason it’s rich, simple, and soul-soothing. Imagine tender bites of chicken, perfectly cooked orzo, and fresh green broccoli enveloped in velvety cheese. It’s a weeknight miracle that tastes like you spent hours on it.
This dish reminds me of rainy fall evenings in a little rental cabin up north, where I’d throw together pantry staples after a hike. With limited ingredients and one pan, dinner still felt like a warm hug. If you’re a fan of recipes like Honey Buffalo Chicken and Mac and Cheese or the creamy Cottage Mac and Cheese, you’re going to love this orzo version just as much.
Let’s make your new favorite fall dinner.
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Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
A cozy one-pot dish featuring tender chicken, creamy orzo, and broccoli all smothered in melty cheese. It’s the ultimate comfort meal for chilly evenings.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped small
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup heavy cream or full-fat milk
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes or paprika for a kick
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the cooked chicken and uncooked orzo to the pan. Stir everything well so the orzo is coated with oil and starts to toast slightly.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir frequently and let the orzo cook for about 8–10 minutes.
- Add the chopped broccoli during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Cover the pan so it steams and softens while the orzo finishes cooking.
- Once the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, stir in the cheddar, parmesan, and heavy cream. Turn off the heat and stir until creamy.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
Cut broccoli small so it cooks evenly. Stir frequently for a creamy texture. Add a splash of broth or milk when reheating to restore creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo. It’s all basic pantry and fridge staples no special trips required.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped small
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup heavy cream or full-fat milk
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes or paprika for a kick
Tip: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or meal-prepped Juicy Baked Chicken Bites for convenience.
Step-by-Step Instructions
This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes with just one pan. Here’s how to bring the magic to life.
- Sauté the aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant. - Add chicken and orzo
Add the cooked chicken and uncooked orzo to the pan. Stir everything well so the orzo is coated with oil and starts to toast slightly — this adds flavor. - Pour in broth and cook
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir frequently and let the orzo cook for about 8–10 minutes. - Add broccoli
Add the chopped broccoli during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Cover the pan so it steams and softens while the orzo finishes cooking. - Cheese it up
Once the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, stir in the cheddar, parmesan, and heavy cream. Turn off the heat and stir until creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. - Serve warm
Serve right away while it’s creamy and hot. If you love veggie-loaded meals, pair this with something light like our Green Goddess Chicken Salad.
Tips for Success
- Cut broccoli small so it cooks quickly and evenly in the steam.
- Stir often while the orzo simmers to prevent sticking and get that perfect creamy texture.
- If it thickens too much, add a splash of warm broth or milk to loosen it before serving.
- For extra cheesy comfort, top with a handful of shredded cheese and broil for 1–2 minutes.
If you’re looking for another cheesy classic, check out our Velveeta Broccoli Cheese Soup that brings the same cozy vibes.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this dish? It’s flexible.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free orzo or substitute with short-grain rice like arborio.
- Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and use a plant-based protein like white beans or tofu cubes.
- Extra Creamy: Add a dollop of cream cheese or a bit more shredded cheddar.
- Add Heat: Sprinkle in cayenne or stir in diced jalapeños for a kick.
- Streusel Topping: Not here, but if you’re craving that, try our Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins for dessert!
Want a new twist on creamy dishes? Try our Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup for an equally comforting experience.
Storage & Reheating
This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo keeps well for a few days, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Add a splash of broth or milk and reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
- Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
It’s also delicious cold as a lunch option or stirred into a salad like our Chicken and Peaches Recipe.
FAQ (People Also Ask)
Can I make this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo ahead of time?
Yes, it’s great for meal prep. Store it in the fridge and reheat with a splash of liquid to restore the creaminess.
What type of cheese works best?
Cheddar gives that classic sharp flavor, but you can mix in mozzarella or gouda for variation.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely. Add it during the last few minutes of simmering no need to thaw first.
Can I make it without chicken?
Yes! Swap in mushrooms, beans, or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a one-pot wonder you’ll crave all season long. It’s cozy, comforting, and beginner-friendly, with just the right balance of creamy, cheesy, and wholesome. Whether you’re feeding a family or just want leftovers that hit the spot, this dish delivers. Try it tonight and don’t forget to peek at our other cozy fall recipes like Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes.