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Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

Creamy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo for Easy Family Dinners

This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a quick and easy one-pot meal, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables.
  • 1 tablespoon butter Enhances flavor and aids in sautéing.
  • 1/2 medium onion, chopped Provides a savory base flavor to the dish.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Infuses aromatic flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning Enhances the overall taste profile with herbs.
For the Vegetables
  • 2 cups broccoli, cut into bite-size florets Adds nutrition and color; can be adjusted for tenderness.
For the Pasta
  • 1 cup orzo pasta, uncooked The main starch component of the dish; can substitute with other small pasta shapes.
For the Sauce
  • 2 cups chicken broth Provides moisture and flavor; can use low-sodium if preferred.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Creates a creamy sauce; can substitute with half-and-half for less richness.
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce Adds depth to the flavor; optional if a substitution is needed.
For the Protein and Cheese
  • 2 cups cooked shredded rotisserie chicken Saves time and adds protein; any cooked chicken can be used here.
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar Melts into a gooey sauce; medium or mild cheddar can be substituted.
For Seasoning
  • salt & pepper For seasoning, adjust to taste.

Equipment

  • large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat until melted. Add ½ chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
  2. Add 2 cups of bite-sized broccoli florets and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
  3. Stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic and ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add 1 cup of uncooked orzo pasta, stirring to combine. Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 10 minutes until orzo is tender.
  5. Once orzo is cooked, add 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken and mix well over low heat.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted.
  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let sit covered for a few minutes if you prefer a thicker consistency before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 70mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge, or freeze for up to 2 months.

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