A Creamy, Comforting One-Pot Meal

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying one-pot meal, this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a must-try! It’s perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal prep and cleanup while delivering maximum flavor. This dish is packed with protein from rotisserie chicken, fiber from fresh broccoli, and a luscious, velvety texture from the cheddar-infused orzo.

Whether you need a quick family dinner, a comforting meal prep option, or an easy dish to impress guests, this recipe has you covered. Plus, it’s highly customizable, so you can tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1/2 medium onion, chopped
2 cups broccoli, cut into bite-size florets
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy/whipping cream
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
2 cups cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Salt & pepper to taste

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make this recipe, you’ll need:

Large pot or deep skillet
Cutting board and knife
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot over medium-high heat, add olive oil and butter. Once melted, sauté the chopped onion for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
Cook the Broccoli: Add in the bite-sized broccoli florets and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
Add Seasonings and Orzo: Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and orzo pasta. Let everything toast for about 30 seconds to enhance the flavors.
Add Liquid and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle boil.
Cook the Orzo: Reduce heat to medium or medium-low and cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Make sure the mixture simmers gently rather than boiling vigorously.
Incorporate Chicken and Cheese: Stir in the shredded chicken and remove the pot from heat. Mix in the shredded cheddar until it’s fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.
Season and Rest: Add salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thin, cover the pot and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.

Tips & Variations

Swap the Protein: Don’t have chicken? Try shredded turkey, diced ham, or even cooked shrimp.
Make it Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with extra broccoli or other veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Add a Crunch: Top with crispy bacon bits or toasted breadcrumbs for added texture.
Use Different Cheese: Sharp cheddar is a classic choice, but you can also try Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Parmesan for a unique twist.
Make it Spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you want to freeze it, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. The texture may change slightly upon reheating.

Reheating

Microwave: Heat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess.
Stovetop: Reheat gently in a pot over low heat, stirring frequently.

What to Serve with Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to pair it with something extra, here are some great options:

Garlic Bread – A crispy slice of garlic bread complements the creamy pasta beautifully.
Side Salad – A fresh green salad with balsamic vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
Roasted Vegetables – If you want more veggies, roasted carrots or asparagus make a great side.
White Wine – A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs perfectly with the cheesy, creamy flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! If you don’t have orzo, you can use small pasta shapes like ditalini or couscous, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How can I make this dish lighter?

To cut down on calories, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese slightly. You can also use a light olive oil spray instead of butter.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge for a day before reheating. Just note that the orzo may absorb more liquid, so you might need to add a splash of broth when reheating.

What’s the best way to prevent the orzo from sticking?

Make sure to stir frequently while cooking, and don’t let it sit for too long without stirring. If the dish thickens too much, add a splash of broth to loosen it up.

Try It & Share!

If you love this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo, be sure to share it with friends and family! Don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more delicious, easy-to-make recipes that bring comfort to your table.

Happy cooking! 🍽️