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Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

Creamy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo for Busy Weeknights

This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a quick and comforting weeknight dinner, perfect for busy families.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 8 oz Orzo Pasta Feel free to swap with ditalini or couscous.
  • 1 lb Chicken Breast Turkey or plant-based options can be used.
  • 2 cups Broccoli Fresh or frozen, thawed properly.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Use freshly grated cheese for best results.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Use half-and-half for a lighter option.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be substituted.
  • 3 cups Chicken Broth Vegetable broth for vegetarian option.

Equipment

  • large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot, combine diced chicken breast and chicken broth, heating over medium-high until it reaches a gentle boil, about 5 minutes. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta and stir well. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
  2. Next, stir in the broccoli florets to the pot, mixing thoroughly. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for an additional 5 minutes while stirring occasionally, allowing the broccoli to become tender.
  3. Gradually sprinkle the freshly grated cheese into the pot while stirring constantly, letting it melt completely into the dish. Continue cooking over low heat for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is luxuriously creamy.
  4. Season the dish generously with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat and serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or garlic bread.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingsCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 80mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavor. Avoid overcooking the orzo to maintain a bit of bite.

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