Description
This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a delicious one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It combines tender rotisserie chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy shredded cheddar cheese with orzo pasta, all cooked in a flavorful mixture of chicken broth and cream. Ready in just 30 minutes, this easy and comforting dish offers a creamy texture and a cheesy finish that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cups broccoli, cut into bite-size florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids & Sauces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Proteins & Cheese
- 2 cups cooked shredded/rotisserie chicken
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Seasoning
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté the Onion: Heat olive oil and butter in a pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Cook the Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the pot and sauté for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure even cooking.
- Add Garlic, Seasoning, and Orzo: Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and uncooked orzo pasta. Cook for about 30 seconds to toast the orzo lightly and release the garlic aroma.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium or medium-low. Simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until the orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed but not dry.
- Incorporate Chicken: Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken and mix well to combine and heat through.
- Add Cheese and Season: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated into a creamy sauce. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thin, cover the pot and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and added flavor, but leftover cooked chicken works just as well.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less creamy.
- Ensure the orzo is cooked through but not mushy; check by tasting around the 10-minute mark.
- You can swap cheddar for mozzarella or a cheese blend for a different cheesy flavor profile.
- This dish reheats well and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
