If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm, comforting hug on a plate, the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe combines tender, juicy chicken with crisp broccoli florets and tiny, pasta pearls of orzo—all wrapped in a rich, creamy blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. It’s quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat. Whether you’re cooking for family or just yourself, this dish hits all the right notes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient is straightforward but plays an essential role. From the tender chicken adding protein and heartiness, to the bright green broccoli delivering fresh texture and nutrients, and the creamy cheeses creating that luscious, gooey finish, these ingredients come together like old friends at a dinner party.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced: Using cooked chicken saves time and keeps the texture tender inside the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup orzo pasta: This tiny rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and soaks up flavors beautifully.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Adds a pop of green color and a satisfying crunch that balances the creaminess.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: The key to that rich, silky sauce that clings to every bite.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts smoothly for that irresistible gooey texture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a bold, nutty flavor that deepens the dish’s complexity.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for sautéing the chicken and bringing out its natural flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a subtle hint of savory warmth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Orzo and Broccoli
Start by cooking the orzo according to the package instructions because perfectly cooked pasta is the foundation of this dish. During the last 2 minutes, toss in the broccoli florets so they blanch just enough to stay crisp and bright green, giving a nice contrast to the creamy sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
While the orzo and broccoli cook, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced, cooked chicken and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes. This quick step warms the chicken and helps it gain a slight golden color, enhancing its flavor without drying it out.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Next, pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle the garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the chicken. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for 2 minutes. This allows the garlic to infuse the cream with a subtle but irresistible aroma that will carry through the whole dish.
Step 4: Add the Cheeses
Now, stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses. You’ll want to drizzle these in slowly while stirring to get a smooth, melty sauce that clings to the chicken beautifully. This step is where the dish truly transforms into something indulgently delicious.
Step 5: Combine Orzo and Broccoli
Finally, add your cooked orzo and blanched broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together to make sure each bite has a perfect mix of chicken, broccoli, pasta, and that incredible cheesy sauce. This ensures every forkful is as satisfying as the last.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately while it’s warm and creamy for the best experience. The blend of textures and flavors offers comfort food that feels both nourishing and exciting.
How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Recipe by sprinkling some freshly chopped parsley or basil on top. These herbs not only add a fresh burst of color but also brighten the rich creaminess with their aromatic, slightly peppery notes. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few red chili flakes can also add a little something special if you like a bit of heat.
Side Dishes
This dish is delightful on its own, but pairing it with a crisp garden salad or a simple garlic bread can create a fuller meal experience. A side of roasted cherry tomatoes or a fresh citrusy slaw adds a refreshing bite that contrasts perfectly with the cheesy goodness of the orzo.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Recipe in individual ramekins or hollowed-out mini bell peppers for a charming presentation. You can even bake it briefly to get a golden, bubbly top layer. These little touches make the dish feel special, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a weekend gathering with friends.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After cooking, allow your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Recipe to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it keeps well for up to 3 days, making it an easy, delicious lunch or dinner option for busy days ahead.
Freezing
This recipe freezes nicely if you want to make it even more convenient. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be mindful that the broccoli’s texture may soften slightly after thawing, but the overall flavor remains delicious.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the leftover Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Recipe on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture. Alternatively, microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, until piping hot and ready to enjoy again.
FAQs
Can I use raw chicken for this recipe?
While this recipe calls for cooked chicken to save time and keep it tender, you can absolutely start with raw chicken breasts. Just dice them and sauté until fully cooked before proceeding with the sauce.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
If you want to lighten the dish, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be quite as rich and creamy as with heavy cream. Adding a little flour or cornstarch can help thicken the sauce if needed.
What can I use if I don’t have orzo pasta?
Pasta shapes like small shells, ditalini, or even rice can work as substitutes for orzo in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they’re tender but not mushy.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in mushrooms, peas, bell peppers, or spinach. Just add them at the right time during cooking so they stay fresh and vibrant without becoming overcooked.
How spicy is this dish?
This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Recipe is mild and creamy, making it perfect for all ages. If you like a kick, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce when serving.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a dish that feels like home, and the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Recipe delivers exactly that. With its quick prep time, straightforward ingredients, and rich, comforting flavors, it’s my go-to whenever I want an easy yet impressive meal. I hope you give it a try and find as much joy in making and eating it as I do sharing it with you.
Print
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A creamy and cheesy chicken broccoli orzo dish that’s quick to prepare, combining tender cooked chicken, blanched broccoli, and orzo pasta simmered in a rich mozzarella and Parmesan cheese sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced
Pasta & Vegetables
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
Dairy
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Other
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Orzo and Broccoli: Cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions in boiling water. In the final 2 minutes of the cooking process, add the broccoli florets to the boiling pot to blanch them, then drain both together.
- Sauté Chicken: While the orzo and broccoli cook, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced, cooked chicken breasts and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until warmed through and slightly golden.
- Add Cream and Seasoning: Pour in the heavy cream, then sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper into the skillet. Stir everything together and allow it to simmer gently for about 2 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
- Melt Cheeses: Add the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses to the skillet. Stir continuously until both cheeses melt completely and create a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Broccoli: Add the cooked orzo and blanched broccoli into the skillet with the creamy chicken mixture. Toss everything to combine evenly, ensuring every bite is coated in the cheesy sauce.
- Serve: Serve the cheesy chicken broccoli orzo immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy your comforting dish!
Notes
- Use pre-cooked chicken to reduce total cooking time.
- Fresh broccoli can be substituted with frozen; adjust blanching time accordingly.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative.
- Add red pepper flakes or Italian herbs for extra flavor variation.
- Ensure to stir continuously when melting cheese to prevent clumping.
