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Chicken Broccoli Orzo
Emily

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

A creamy, one-pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo dinner that is ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast diced into 1-inch pieces
  • 0.5 tsp salt plus more to taste
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 0.5 tsp paprika
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta uncooked
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup milk whole or 2%
  • 2 cups broccoli florets cut small
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook for 5-6 minutes until browned. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
  3. Sauté the minced garlic in the same pan for 30 seconds, then stir in the dry orzo and toast for 1 minute.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and milk. Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the pasta is tender and broccoli is cooked through.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and toss to combine.

Notes

  • If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash more broth or water to loosen it up.
  • Cut broccoli into small, even pieces so they cook through quickly.