Easy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo

When you need a quick, comforting, and nutritious meal, Easy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo delivers on every level. This dish blends juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and creamy orzo pasta into a one-pan masterpiece that is both filling and flavorful. Unlike traditional pasta, orzo has a rice-like shape that absorbs flavors beautifully, making it perfect for soaking up savory chicken juices and light seasoning. With minimal prep, simple ingredients, and straightforward steps, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining. The best part is how versatile it is—you can easily customize it to suit your preferences while keeping the core flavors intact.

Ingredients

Gather these precise ingredients to prepare the perfect Chicken and Broccoli Orzo:

• Protein:
  • 1 pound (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized cubes)
• Vegetables:
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 200 g)
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Orzo Base:
  • 1 ½ cups (285 g) uncooked orzo pasta
  • 3 cups (720 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
• Creaminess & Flavor:
  • ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
  • ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Seasoning:
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Freshness & Garnish:
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Extra Parmesan for serving

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
2. Season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Set aside while preparing the pot.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer.
3. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through.
4. Transfer chicken to a plate and keep warm.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter.
2. Stir in onion and garlic.
3. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 4: Toast the Orzo

1. Add the uncooked orzo to the pan with the onion mixture.
2. Stir frequently for 2–3 minutes until lightly golden.
3. This step deepens the flavor of the pasta.

Step 5: Add Liquid and Simmer

1. Pour in chicken broth and stir well.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low.
3. Simmer uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Incorporate Broccoli

1. Add broccoli florets to the skillet during the last 4 minutes of orzo cooking.
2. Stir gently so broccoli cooks evenly without overcooking.

Step 7: Make It Creamy

1. Once the orzo is tender and broth absorbed, stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
2. Return chicken to the skillet.
3. Mix until everything is creamy and well combined.

Step 8: Final Touches

1. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed.
2. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.

Conservation and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream and pasta may separate and turn mushy.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore creaminess. Microwave reheating is possible but should be done in short bursts with stirring.

Variations

1. Protein Alternatives: Swap chicken with turkey, shrimp, or leftover rotisserie chicken.
2. Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty meatless option.
3. Cheese Options: Try Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or a blend of cheeses for different flavor profiles.
4. Lighter Version: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt for fewer calories.
5. Extra Vegetables: Add bell peppers, peas, or zucchini for more color and nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Pair with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for balance.
• Add roasted vegetables like carrots or asparagus for a more complete meal.
• For entertaining, present it in a large serving dish topped with fresh Parmesan shavings.

Tips for Perfecting the Dish

• Do not overcook broccoli: Add it near the end to preserve its vibrant color and slight crunch.
• Toast the orzo: This step prevents sogginess and enhances flavor.
• Balance seasoning: Taste at the end and adjust salt, pepper, or Parmesan for the perfect finish.
• Use fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese may clump and not melt as smoothly.

Conclusion

Easy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo combines wholesome ingredients, rich creaminess, and balanced flavors in a quick one-pan dish. The juicy chicken pairs seamlessly with tender broccoli and creamy orzo, creating a meal that is both satisfying and versatile. With easy variations, straightforward preparation, and storage tips, this recipe adapts to busy schedules and different tastes. Whether you serve it on a weeknight or at a dinner gathering, this dish guarantees comfort, flavor, and a touch of elegance in every bite.

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Easy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo

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• Author: hafsahafsa
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A creamy, comforting one-pan meal that brings together tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and orzo pasta in a rich Parmesan sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein

1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes

Vegetables

2 cups broccoli florets (200 g)

1 small onion, finely diced

2 garlic cloves, minced

Orzo Base

1 ½ cups (285 g) uncooked orzo pasta

3 cups (720 ml) low-sodium chicken broth

Creaminess & Flavor

½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream

½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese

2 tbsp unsalted butter

1 tbsp olive oil

Seasoning

1 tsp dried Italian herbs

½ tsp smoked paprika

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Freshness & Garnish

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Extra Parmesan for serving

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Instructions

Prepare Chicken: Pat chicken dry. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a skillet. Cook chicken 6–8 minutes until golden. Remove and keep warm.

Sauté Aromatics: Add remaining butter, onion, and garlic. Cook 2–3 minutes.

Toast Orzo: Stir in orzo. Cook 2–3 minutes until lightly golden.

Simmer: Add chicken broth. Bring to boil, reduce heat, and simmer 8–10 minutes, stirring.

Add Broccoli: Stir in florets during the last 4 minutes of cooking.

Make Creamy: Stir in cream and Parmesan. Return chicken to skillet. Mix well.

Finish: Adjust seasoning. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve warm.

Notes

Add broccoli near the end to keep it bright and slightly crisp.

Toasting orzo enhances flavor and prevents mushiness.

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the creamiest result.

Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream to restore consistency.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner / Pasta
• Method: One-Pot / Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (¼ of recipe)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 640 mg
• Fat: 23 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 32 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg

Keywords: easy chicken and broccoli orzo, creamy chicken orzo pasta, one-pot chicken broccoli pasta, weeknight chicken orzo recipe