Name: Easy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo: A Complete Guide
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American / Italian-inspired
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into small bite-sized cubes); 1 teaspoon salt (divided, for chicken and orzo); ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 small onion, finely diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup orzo pasta (uncooked); 3 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred); 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, cut into small pieces); ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version); 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; Juice of half a lemon (optional, for brightness); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

If you want a hearty, wholesome, and easy weeknight dinner, Easy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo is a dish you should master. This recipe balances tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and creamy orzo pasta in one skillet. Unlike heavy casseroles or complicated meals, this dish comes together quickly while still feeling special. The best part is its versatility—you can customize it with your favorite seasonings, vegetables, or protein substitutes. Whether you are cooking for your family, meal-prepping, or serving guests, this recipe provides comfort and flavor without excess effort.

Ingredients

Here are the exact measurements you’ll need for a balanced and flavorful result:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into small bite-sized cubes)
1 teaspoon salt (divided, for chicken and orzo)
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 small onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup orzo pasta (uncooked)
3 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, cut into small pieces)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Juice of half a lemon (optional, for brightness)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and let it warm.
Season chicken cubes with ½ teaspoon salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Place chicken in the skillet and sear for 5–7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same skillet, add diced onion. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, stirring to avoid burning.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

Stir in the uncooked orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes to develop a nutty flavor.
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
Reduce heat to medium and let the orzo simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally so it doesn’t stick to the pan.

Step 4: Add Broccoli

When the orzo is halfway cooked, add broccoli florets.
Stir gently and continue cooking until both the orzo is tender and the broccoli bright green and fork-tender.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
Stir in heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until creamy and well combined.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness, if desired.
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish.
Serve hot, straight from the skillet for maximum creaminess.

Conservation and Storage

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Orzo dishes can dry out when frozen. If you choose to freeze, add extra cream or broth before reheating. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess. Microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

Variations

Protein Swaps

Chicken thighs: Juicier and more forgiving than chicken breasts.
Shrimp: Add at the end of cooking for a seafood twist.
Turkey or pork: Use lean ground meat for a different texture.

Flavor Boosts

Add sun-dried tomatoes for tangy depth.
Stir in red pepper flakes for heat.
Mix in cheddar or mozzarella for a cheesier result.

Vegetable Additions

Replace or mix broccoli with asparagus, spinach, or peas.
Roast the broccoli beforehand for a nuttier flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Serve alongside garlic bread or focaccia to soak up the creamy sauce.
Offer a glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, for adults.
For a family-friendly version, add a side of roasted carrots or cucumber slices to balance flavors.

Tips for Perfecting the Dish

Toast the orzo before adding liquid to enhance its flavor.
Cut broccoli into small florets so they cook evenly.
Use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-shredded for smoother melting.
Don’t overcook the orzo—aim for al dente texture to prevent mushiness.
Adjust the creaminess: For a lighter dish, use half-and-half or milk; for indulgence, increase the cream and cheese.

Conclusion

Easy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo stands out as a versatile one-pan dish that blends protein, vegetables, and pasta into a balanced meal. With simple ingredients, quick steps, and room for endless customization, it becomes a reliable recipe for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. Whether you enjoy it creamy and rich or light and fresh, this dish adapts to your preferences while always delivering comfort and flavor.

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Easy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo: A Complete Guide

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

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Description

Easy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo is a creamy one-pan dinner that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and orzo pasta. Quick to prepare and endlessly versatile, it’s a perfect solution for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into small bite-sized cubes)

1 teaspoon salt (divided, for chicken and orzo)

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 small onion, finely diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup orzo pasta (uncooked)

3 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)

2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, cut into small pieces)

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Juice of half a lemon (optional, for brightness)

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with ½ teaspoon salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Cook for 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Build the Flavor Base
Add diced onion to the skillet and cook 2–3 minutes. Add garlic and sauté 1 minute.

Cook the Orzo
Stir in orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil. Lower heat and simmer 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add Broccoli
Halfway through cooking, add broccoli florets. Continue until broccoli is tender and orzo is al dente.

Finish the Dish
Return chicken to skillet. Stir in cream, butter, and Parmesan. Mix until creamy. Add lemon juice if desired. Adjust seasoning.

Serve
Garnish with parsley. Serve hot from skillet.