Name: Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 medium onion, chopped; 2 cups broccoli, cut into bite-size florets; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy/whipping cream; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 cups cooked shredded/rotisserie chicken; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; Salt & pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 8 reviews

If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy, and vibrant dinner that comes together in just one pot, then this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Recipe is absolutely for you. Imagine tender orzo pasta swimming in a creamy cheddar sauce, studded with juicy shredded chicken and bright, crisp broccoli florets. It’s hearty yet fresh, quick enough for busy weeknights, and full of flavors that feel homemade and satisfying. Every bite delivers a perfect balance of cheesy indulgence and wholesome goodness that will have you reaching for seconds before you know it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white pot with green handles on a white marbled surface. Inside the pot, there is a base layer of small, soft, light brown grilled or cooked onions spread evenly. On top of this layer, bright green broccoli florets are placed, some showing their stalks and others their bushy tops, scattered naturally over the onions. The colors contrast between the golden onions and the fresh green broccoli. The pot is open, and the view is from above, capturing the vegetable mix clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward but each plays a vital role in making this dish shine. The combination of fresh veggies, creamy dairy, and savory chicken brings a wonderful harmony of taste, texture, and color to your plate.

Olive oil: A flavorful base for sautéing that adds subtle fruitiness and helps develop the dish’s depth.
Butter: Adds richness and smooth texture, perfectly complementing the olive oil for cooking the aromatics.
Onion: Brings a mild sweetness and aromatic foundation when cooked just right.
Broccoli: Adds crunch, vibrant color, and a fresh, slightly bitter flavor to balance the cheesy sauce.
Garlic: Boosts the savory notes with its unmistakable pungency and warmth.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that injects a hint of Mediterranean flavor complexity.
Orzo pasta: The perfect small pasta shape that soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
Chicken broth: Creates the flavorful cooking liquid that infuses the orzo as it softens.
Heavy cream: Ensures the sauce is luxuriously creamy and comforting to the last spoonful.
Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami depth and a subtle tang to enhance the overall flavor.
Cooked shredded chicken: Provides protein and tender bites that make this meal filling and satisfying.
Sharp cheddar cheese: Melts into a luscious, tangy sauce that coats every ingredient.
Salt & pepper: Essential seasonings to round out and elevate all the other flavors.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Your Aromatics

Start by warming olive oil and butter together in a pot over medium-high heat, then add your chopped onion. Sauté the onion for about 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes translucent and starts to smell sweet—this builds the foundational flavor for the whole dish.

Step 2: Add the Broccoli

Toss in the broccoli florets and give everything a good stir. Cook the mixture for 2 more minutes so the broccoli starts to soften but keeps its inviting crunch and bright green color, which brings freshness and vibrancy to each bite.

Step 3: Infuse with Garlic and Herbs

Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, letting their aromas bloom for about 30 seconds. Then add your orzo pasta, mixing everything so the flavors marry nicely before adding liquids.

Step 4: Pour in the Liquids and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring the liquid to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium or medium-low. Let it cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring regularly. This step allows the orzo to tenderize while soaking up that rich, flavorful broth, and the sauce to thicken beautifully.

Step 5: Add Chicken and Cheese

Stir in your shredded chicken, making sure it warms through evenly. Remove the pot from heat and immediately fold in the sharp cheddar cheese until it melts fully into a creamy sauce. Taste and season with salt and pepper generously—this is where the dish shines brightest.

Step 6: Let It Rest

If your sauce seems a bit thin, cover the pot and let it sit for a few minutes off the heat. This resting period allows the sauce to thicken up perfectly for serving.

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Recipe

A close-up of creamy orzo pasta mixed with small bright green broccoli pieces in a large white pot with a green handle visible on the side, a purple spoon lifting a portion of the dish showing creamy light yellow sauce coating the pasta and broccoli, with black pepper flakes sprinkled throughout, all placed on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few cracked black pepper flakes on top adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens the cheesy richness. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a little bit of grated Parmesan can bring a classy finishing touch as well.

Side Dishes

This dish stands well on its own, but if you want to add a side, something crisp and light works wonders. A simple mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette helps balance the creamy texture, or some crunchy roasted chickpeas lend a fun textural contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Recipe in individual bowls for a cozy, personal meal—perfect for family dinners or casual nights. For entertaining, a colorful casserole dish really lets the vibrant greens and golden cheese pop on the table. Adding a few lemon wedges on the side can invite guests to brighten their dish with fresh citrus.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container once cooled and store them in the fridge. The Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Recipe holds up well for up to 3 days, making it a perfect lunch or dinner ready to reheat.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish, but keep in mind that cream-based sauces may separate slightly after thawing. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and encourage the sauce to come back together. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between until heated through and creamy once again.

FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie?

Absolutely! You can cook chicken breasts or thighs beforehand and shred them up for this recipe. Rotisserie chicken is just a convenient shortcut that adds great flavor and saves time.

Is it possible to swap the broccoli for another vegetable?

Yes! Cauliflower, green beans, or spinach work well as alternatives. Just adjust cooking times slightly depending on the vegetable’s texture to keep the dish balanced.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative, use coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute, and choose a dairy-free cheddar-style cheese. The dish will still be tasty but with a different flavor profile.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you want a thicker sauce, let the dish sit covered off the heat for several minutes after cooking. You can also reduce the liquid slightly during the simmer step or add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water before adding the cheese.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it up to the step before adding cheese and rest time, then refrigerate. When you’re ready, reheat gently and stir in the cheese last for the freshest creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Recipe has quickly become one of my absolute go-tos when I want something cozy, nourishing, and effortless. It’s the kind of meal that feels special even on an ordinary night, making it ideal for sharing with loved ones. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do—get ready to savor every cheesy, chicken-filled bite!