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A skillet filled with creamy cheesy chicken broccoli orzo and melted cheddar cheese
Print Recipe

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 485kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper
  • 1.5 cups dry orzo pasta
  • 3 cups low -sodium chicken broth
  • 2 cups broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  • Add chicken cubes, salt, and pepper; sauté until chicken is browned and cooked through, approximately 6 minutes. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
  • Add the dry orzo to the skillet and toast for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a rapid boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 8 minutes.
  • Place broccoli florets on top of the orzo, cover again, and cook for an additional 4 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
  • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the garlic powder, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar cheese.
  • Stir continuously over low heat until the cheese is fully emulsified into a smooth sauce and the orzo is tender.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste and serve immediately.