One-Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Skillet (Print Version)
Enjoy a creamy, cheesy one-pan chicken broccoli orzo skillet. This easy weeknight dinner features tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta in a rich sauce.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ The Hearty Foundation
01 -
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
02 -
1 1/2 cups orzo pasta (uncooked)
03 -
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
→ Aromatic & Green Boost
04 -
1 tbsp olive oil
05 -
1/2 medium yellow onion, finely diced
06 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
07 -
3 cups fresh broccoli florets
→ The Creamy Cheesy Embrace
08 -
1 cup whole milk
09 -
4 oz cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
10 -
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
11 -
1 tsp Italian seasoning
12 -
1/2 tsp salt, plus more to taste
13 -
1/4 tsp black pepper, plus more to taste
14 -
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast cubes; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in 1/2 medium yellow onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened.
02 -
Add 3 cloves minced garlic to the pan and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in 1 1/2 cups uncooked orzo pasta, toasting for 1-2 minutes. This helps build the flavor foundation for your Creamy One-Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo.
03 -
Pour in 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Cover and reduce heat to medium-low, cooking for 8-10 minutes.
04 -
Uncover the pan and stir in 3 cups fresh broccoli florets. Continue to cook, uncovered, for another 5-7 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
05 -
Reduce heat to low. Stir in 1 cup whole milk, 4 oz softened cream cheese cubes, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Cook, stirring constantly, until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth for your Creamy One-Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo.
06 -
Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese until completely melted and incorporated. Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly, ensuring the perfect Creamy One-Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo.
07 -
Garnish your Creamy One-Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo with 2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately and enjoy this comforting one-pan meal.
# Notes:
01 -
For a different veggie, try chopped asparagus or spinach. Add asparagus with the broccoli, or spinach in the last 2 minutes of cooking.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth.
03 -
For an even richer sauce, swap out 1/2 cup of the whole milk for heavy cream.
04 -
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic for a subtle kick if you like a little heat.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet (12-inch or larger)
02 -
Cutting board
03 -
Chef's knife
04 -
Measuring cups
05 -
Measuring spoons
06 -
Wooden spoon or spatula
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 730 kcal
Total Fat: 30 g
Total Carbohydrate: 57 g
Protein: 56 g